How to Handle Potential Child Abuse
Every adult has a moral responsibility to care for the children in the community. If you see signs of child abuse, you need to make a report to protect the health and safety of the child. The family should get the help they need to learn how to live together in a functioning, healthy family setting.
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Instructions
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Take the child to a hospital if you think they're in immediate danger from a family member. Tell the staff you believe the child has been abused and explain why. The staff will then contact the police and child protective services, resulting in immediate intervention.
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Call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline to make an anonymous report if you suspect child abuse. The number is 1-800-4-A-CHILD.
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Learn the signs of child abuse. Neglect is often reflected in lack of weather appropriate clothing, poor hygiene and hungry children. Physical abuse is often revealed when children exhibit aggression or inappropriate sexual knowledge.
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Be aware of your legal responsibilities as well as your ethical ones. Teachers, health care professionals, child care professionals and others are legally obligated to report suspected child abuse.
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Make a list of the things you see that lead you to suspect child abuse. Note the date and time, as well as the attitude or behavior of the child. The information will help to determine exactly what's happening or not happening in the life of that child.
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Contact your local Social Services department or Child Protective Services, or contact your local police department to make a report of suspected child abuse.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't feel guilty for reporting suspected child abuse. Even if you're wrong, you're acting out of concern for the health and wellbeing of a child.
