4.3

We Act...
by overcoming common barriers to reporting

Why don't people report child abuse?

Although you may feel hesitant or unsure of how to respond to suspected child abuse, the consequences of choosing not to report suspicions to ChildLine could be seriously detrimental to a child's safety. In some cases, they might even be life threatening. Why then don't people report child abuse? Many people when faced with a possible case of child abuse find themselves asking:

  • What if I am wrong?
  • What if I am not sure if it is abuse?
  • What will happen to the child? Will it make things worse for the child?
  • Can I be sued if I am wrong?

Below are some common concerns that people have when it comes to reporting child abuse, and the reasons that you, as a Penn State employee or volunteer, should feel comfortable in overcoming similar hesitations.

1. "I am confused or uncertain about my reporting responsibilities."

Not knowing your professional responsibilities is not an excuse for failing to report abuse. Training and resources are available for all Penn State employees and Authorized Adults (mandated reporters). In addition, ChildLine staff can readily answer any questions you have about reporting responsibilities. It is your job to know and understand your role and responsibilities at Penn State for reporting suspected abuse and when to fulfill those requirements.

2. "I don’t know the signs of abuse, so I really am not sure if what is happening is abuse."

A person who is required to report does not have to be "sure" that abuse is occurring. As we have discussed in this training, all Penn State employees and Authorized Adults (employees and volunteers) are required to report suspected abuse. Signs and symptoms help to raise a reporter's suspicions but do not have to be observed first hand to be required to report. Trust your gut! If you are worried about the possibility of abuse, report!

3. "I really don’t want to become involved. It isn't my place."

It is your place to report child abuse! If you are a Penn State employee, reporting child abuse is both your moral and institutional responsibility (Policy AD72). If you are classified as an Authorized Adult under Policy AD39, it is also your legal responsibility to report abuse.

4. "I am fearful of possible retaliation or the consequences for reporting suspected abuse that isn't confirmed."

Under the CPSL, any person, hospital, institution, school, facility, agency, or agency employee who in good faith makes a report of child abuse, has immunity from both civil and criminal liability. This important legal protection for reporters is designed to help increase the likelihood that reporters will follow through with reporting requirements and responsibilities. This immunity helps to encourage more complete reporting of suspected child abuse and protect abused children from further abuse.

5. "The child asked me not to tell, and I'm worried about breaking that trust with the child and breaking confidentiality."

When it comes to suspected child abuse, confidentiality does not apply unless your position makes you a rare exception, in which case you would be notified.

6. "I am very concerned about escalating the situation or maybe even making it worse for the child."

Although one cannot be sure what will happen after a report is made, if no report is made, abuse is much more likely to continue and will escalate.


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