Child abuse is a more prevalent issue than most of us realize, with a report made every ten seconds. Each year, more than four million referral reports for child abuse are received. Child abuse does not only have a significant impact on the individual, but also on wider society, leading to mental health disorders and conditions, substance abuse and addiction, healthcare costs, loss of productivity, reproductive health issues and more. In some states, it is mandatory for everybody to report all suspected child abuse to the relevant authorities. If you suspect child abuse, here is what you should do.
Understanding the Signs
Child abuse and neglect is defined by the Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act as any act or failure on the part of a parent or caregiver resulting in serious physical or emotional damage, sexual abuse, exploitation, or death to the child. There are different types of child abuse including neglect, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. Some of the common signs of abuse in children include physical injuries or marks that are unexplained, at different stages of healing, or show patterns such as a hand or belt. Children who are being abused may be afraid to go home or display extreme and troublesome behaviors. They may also have physical symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, weight loss or poor weight gain, and stunted growth.
How to Report
If you suspect that a child is being abused, then it is important to act as quickly as possible to avoid the child being at risk of further harm. If you are not sure if abuse is taking place, then you may wish to speak to the child if possible or their teachers or healthcare providers if you can. Report any suspected child abuse to the relevant authority, such as child protective services in the state. An attorney that specializes in such cases like a clergy abuse attorney can also help with providing further advice on the best steps to take in a given situation.
Mandatory Reporting
In many states there are certain professionals who are known as mandatory reporters. These include teachers, healthcare professionals, counselors, and other people who may work with children. They are required by law to report any suspicions of child abuse. If you report a suspicion of child abuse to any of these professionals, they are legally required to take the report further. On the other hand, in other states, everybody is a mandatory reporter. If you are an adult residing in such a state, then you are legally required to report any suspicions that you may have of child abuse or neglect. Remember that even if it turns out that the child is not being abused, it is always better to err on the side of caution and avoid risking further harm coming to a child.
It can be difficult to determine what to do if you have reason to believe a child is being mistreated. Reporting to the appropriate authorities is usually the best course of action if you suspect child abuse or neglect.
