Navigating Child Abuse and Neglect Disclosures

Options for mandated reporters when children resist reporting.

“Across the United States, state laws designate licensed mental health professionals (MHPs) as mandated reporters when they have reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect (Ettinger, 2022). This legal obligation requires MHPs to report such concerns to child protection authorities and exposes them to potential criminal charges, fines, or professional discipline (including loss of licensure) if they fail to report. Although mandated-reporting laws play a vital role in safeguarding children from maltreatment, they can also create challenging clinical and ethical dilemmas (Barsky, 2023). In some situations, child clients may strongly oppose involving child protective services (CPS), particularly when they fear family disruption or parental retaliation. This post examines options available to MHPs who must balance their statutory reporting duties with the expressed wishes of child clients who do not want their parents reported, despite presenting significant child protection concerns.”