When a child discloses abuse, it is very important to listen without expressing disbelief, anger or suspicion. First, children need to know that the abuse is not their fault. Listen carefully and then ask only open-ended questions, such as “and then what happened?” If possible, determine what happened, maybe mention you just need enough information to raise suspicion.  Some people may interpret this as “get every detail”, where a young child will probably not be able to tell you when and by whom.

Do not ask leading questions. Do not try to conclude information, even if you are sure you know the answers. This can re-traumatize the child and contaminate the investigation. Do not attempt to investigate further or probe for details. You do not need to be sure it happened. Do not look for physical signs but ask if they exist and note what the child said in their words. Promptly report to law enforcement agencies, child protection services, or both. Do not make false promises to the child such as maintaining the confidentiality of your report. Trained professionals need to collect facts and details, and this could include talking with the child.

All states designate certain professionals as mandated reporters, and some states require all citizens to report child abuse. A mandated reporter is required by law to report abuse if there is reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion may be different for different people based on their education, training, and experience. Check mandatory reporting laws in your state to determine if your profession is included in those required to report. Regardless of the specific mandated reporter laws, all adults should report suspected abuse to protect children.

Most states require that the person who has reasonable suspicion be the one to make the report. DO NOT delegate this to someone else, even your supervisor. In addition, no supervisor may impede you from reporting. If they do, they can face penalties.

At a minimum, you will need to provide:

• the child’s name
• address
• age of the child
• the name or names of parents or guardians
• the type of abuse
• the name of the person committing the abuse and any relationship with the child

Include any other details that are useful, but if the child does not volunteer this information do not continue to question. The minimum amount of information needed is the child’s name and where they can be found. Law enforcement agencies or child protective services will carry out the investigation, and you can add details to the report if they become available later. You might be able to track the report through child protective services to follow the status of the investigation.

Most state laws indicate that a report must be filed when there is reasonable suspicion that a child has been abused, is being abused, or is at risk of being abused. A Mandated reporter must be filed as soon as the suspicion is triggered. This means as soon as you have reason to believe that there is a case of abuse or if the child discloses to you. You do not need proof or knowledge; reasonable suspicion is enough to trigger your individual duty to report.  Some state laws indicate “reasonable suspicion” as a requirement to make the report. Again, this means that you so not have to have proof, only reasonable suspicion of abuse. Do not wait for more evidence or information to make the report.

State laws vary as to who should receive a report of child sexual abuse; sometimes it is a phone call to Child Protection Services or the Department of Family and Child Services in your county, or it may be law enforcement or a mandated reporter hotline. The laws of your state may also specify a timeframe that a mandated reporter must report within; it is usually immediately after having reason to believe that a child is being abused or no more than 24 to 48 hours following. Some states may require a written report be submitted as a follow-up to a report made by telephone.

It is better not to contact parents before making a report. Doing so could result in retaliation to the child, destruction of evidence, or the temporary removal of the alleged abuser from the home. Under certain conditions you may need to maintain open communication with the parents. When this happens, never accuse the parents of having done something wrong and explain that you are legally obligated to make a report.

No. Those who make a report in good faith are protected from legal risks.

You do not need to give your name unless you are a professional required to report by the laws of your state; however, in all cases the contact information of persons required to report is confidential and protected by law. Although they allow anonymous reports, it is helpful to give your name if more information is needed.

A mandated reporter who fails to make a report is committing a crime. Penalties vary by state. Your state laws define the type of crime and jail time and / or any fine imposed.