Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

In cases where a caregiver is reported to be abusive, what should the child protection worker do under mandatory reporting laws?

1. Discuss the situation with the caregiver before reporting.

2. Review evidence privately before making a decision.

3. Contact the authorities to report the suspected abuse.

4. Consult with other professionals about the situation.

The correct answer is: Contact the authorities to report the suspected abuse.

The appropriate action for a child protection worker under mandatory reporting laws is to contact the authorities to report the suspected abuse. Mandatory reporting laws are designed to protect children from harm by ensuring that suspected abuse or neglect is reported promptly to the appropriate authorities who are equipped to investigate and intervene as necessary. These laws emphasize the importance of swift action to safeguard the child’s welfare. When a report of potential abuse is made, it is crucial to bypass discussions with the caregiver or reviewing evidence privately, as these actions could pose a risk to the child. Engaging the caregiver could potentially alert them to the investigation and lead to further harm or the destruction of evidence. Similarly, delaying action to consult with other professionals, while sometimes valuable in processing information, does not replace the obligation to report when abuse is suspected. The primary focus must always be the safety and well-being of the child, making immediate reporting the correct course of action.