Adultification occurs when notions of innocence and vulnerability are not afforded to certain children. If professionals view some children as more ‘adult’ due to factors such as race, gender and class, their wellbeing, safeguarding needs and rights as children can be diminished or overlooked.  

This session will explore how adultification manifests in practice, and ways to guard against it and practical tips to reduce discrimination and bias within safeguarding, and interpret signs of distress and trauma so that welfare responses are more equal.