The term “sexual predator” can refer to someone seeking or participating in sexual acts in an aggressive or exploitative way. It should not be confused with a sex offender, who has committed a sexual crime. The behaviors defining a sexual predator vary, but can include seeking out minors. The term is unofficial and can be loosely applied.
The term “sexual predator” can refer to people who exhibit different types of behaviors, all of which revolve around seeking or participating in sexual acts. In some cases, the term may refer to someone who aggressively seeks sex or sexual acts, or someone who seeks out a sexual partner in a predatory way, such as stalking. In other cases, a sexual predator may be someone who seeks sex, even if it’s consensual sex, but does so in an aggressive or obvious way. A sexual predator should not be confused with a sex offender, although in some cases the terms are interchangeable.
A sex offender is someone who has committed a sexual crime. Sex offenders must register with the state or locality where they live so they can be publicly identified as a sex offender. A sexual predator, however, doesn’t need to take these steps because they may or may not have committed any crime. Some US states use the term “sexual predator” interchangeably with “sex offender” and are treated the same way. This can cause some confusion among the public, so most states or regions have opted to delineate the two.
The behaviors that define a sexual predator will vary on a case-by-case basis. Someone can be considered a sexual predator just by looking for sex in a bar or club. Others may be seen as sexual predators to seek exploitative sexual contact, such as taking advantage of someone who is weaker, drunk, or otherwise not in control of her mental abilities. Individuals who record and distribute pornography without the consent or knowledge of the participants may also be considered predatory, and while such acts may be illegal in some places, the predator is not necessarily a sex offender until accused of a felony. .
The term has also been loosely associated with the practice of child molestation or abuse. Adults who sexually take advantage of minors or adults who seek to do so are generally considered sexual predators. If they are caught, they can be charged with crimes and thus become a sex offender. The term is often applied to people who consciously and intentionally seek such relationships, although since the term is unofficial, it can be loosely applied to any situation.
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