Reporting Child Abuse...

When working with children it is important to establish a relationship of trust.
I work with children in my church and community and they confide in me on a regular basis. I let them know that they can trust me however, they know if they disclose a threat or act of violence or abuse with me than I am obligated to report it. This is made clear to them when we first start talking. It’s important that they know that I want to assure they are not in any danger and to protect them.

If a child discloses abuse to you it is important that you:
• Listen carefully to what the child is saying and let the child know that you believe them.
• You should reassure the child that the abuse is not their fault.
• You should also let them know you will make a report about the abuse.

It is important that you do not:
• Make promises you can’t keep.
• Push the child into giving details.
• Ask direct questions about the abuse, as this can be harmful to the investigation. (KidsFirstInc.org, 2013)

The child being abused may already feel scared, angry, and ashamed. Hearing about the abuse may make you feel angry, frustrated, and disgusted, but it is important to remain calm. As outlined in Principle A: Beneficence and Nonmaleficence and Principle B: Fidelity and Responsibility, you must strive to benefit the child and do good and not harm. It’s important to act in a professional manner and to safeguard the welfare and rights of the child. You have a responsibility to make sure you do what is in the best interest of the child (Fisher, p.25-26).

When reporting abuse I give the child the opportunity to share with their parents (if they haven’t already). I make myself available to be there with them as an added support. If they would rather I make the report, then I would do so. I am sure to report it to the authorities as well, so a full investigation can be completed.

In Pennsylvania, the mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect of children from ever happening. If a report must be made it can be done by contacting ChildLine. Their mission is to accept calls from the public and professional sources 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Cultural sensitivity and courteous demeanor will be displayed at all times to all callers. ChildLine will provide information, counseling, and referral services for families and children to ensure the safety and well being of the children of Pennsylvania (Department of Public Welfare, 2013).

References: Fisher, C. B., (2013). Decoding the ethics code: A practical guide for psychologists. Third Edition. Thousand Oaks, California: Sage Publications.

http://www.kidsfirstinc.org/reporting-abuse/what-to-do-if-a-child-discloses-abuse-or-neglect-to-you

http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/forchildren/childwelfareservices/calltoreportchildabuse