31 Mandated Reporting
Mandatory Reporting
Mandated reporters are required by law to report suspected abuse and neglect they see in the course of their professional duties. Professionals are referred to as mandated reporters because they are required by state law to report suspected neglect or abuse of children, adults at risk, and the elderly. Professionals should be aware of the county or state agencies to whom they should report suspected abuse. For example, in Wisconsin, suspected neglect or abuse is reported to Child Protective Services (CPS) or law enforcement. Persons required to report and who intentionally fail to report suspected child abuse or neglect may be fined up to $1,000 or imprisoned for up to six months or both. 16 See Figure 15.7 for an image related to reporting suspected abuse and neglect.17
Figure 15.7 Report Suspected Child Abuse. Used under Fair Use.
What to Report
Mandatory reporters who suspect neglect or abuse should contact their county social/human services department, sheriff, or local police department immediately. When making a report, explain what happened or is happening to the child or vulnerable adult. Describe the nature of the abuse or neglect and be as specific as possible. Be prepared to give the name, DOB, address, and telephone number of the victim, as well as the name of their parent or caregiver. Include information on any known or reported Native American ancestry. If you do not know all of this information, report what you do know and explain all you know about the situation and family dynamics.18
When a report is filed, the receiving department will make a safety screening determination based on state statutes. If the report meets the criteria for alleged maltreatment, a social worker from the county department of social/ human services will proceed with an investigation of the reported maltreatment and work with the parents to assess the situation to determine if any support or assistance is needed to protect the child or vulnerable adult and help the family.19
| Find resources in your area for reporting suspected child abuse at ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline.
Read more about protective services in your state. Access Wisconsin’s information at Child Protective Services. |
Resources
16. Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. (2019). It shouldn’t hurt to be a child… but sometimes it does. [Brochure]. https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/files/publications/pdf/0101.pdf
17. “stop-child-abuse-see-the-signs-make-the-call-1536×748.jpg” by unknown author for Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth & Their Families is used under Fair Use.
18. Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. (2019). It shouldn’t hurt to be a child… but sometimes it does. [Brochure]. https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/files/publications/pdf/0101.pdf
19. Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. (2019). It shouldn’t hurt to be a child… but sometimes it does. [Brochure]. https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/files/publications/pd