Which statement about mandated reporters is true?

Which statement about mandated reporters is true?

• A. Mandated reporters are required to report suspected child abuse
• B. Reporting is optional for mandated reporters
• C. Only police must report
• D. Clergy are the only ones required to report

Answer: (A)

Mandated reporters are legally required to report suspected child abuse. This duty applies to professionals and others who work with children—such as teachers, doctors, nurses, social workers, law enforcement, and clergy—so that reports can be made to the appropriate authorities (often child protective services or police) promptly. The goal is to protect children and trigger timely investigations when there is reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect. Reports made in good faith are typically protected from liability, and the obligation is a legal requirement rather than an option. Because of this duty, stating that reporting is optional, that only police must report, or that clergy are the only ones required is not correct.

Mandated reporters are legally required to report suspected child abuse. This duty applies to professionals and others who work with children—such as teachers, doctors, nurses, social workers, law enforcement, and clergy—so that reports can be made to the appropriate authorities (often child protective services or police) promptly. The goal is to protect children and trigger timely investigations when there is reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect. Reports made in good faith are typically protected from liability, and the obligation is a legal requirement rather than an option. Because of this duty, stating that reporting is optional, that only police must report, or that clergy are the only ones required is not correct.