CDC CDC Child Abuse Recognition & Mandated Reporting 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is considered a physical indicator of possible child abuse?
- Unexplained bruises in various stages of healing (Correct answer)
- A single bruise on the knee from playground play
- A minor scrape on the elbow
- Redness from sunburn
Correct answer: Unexplained bruises in various stages of healing
Unexplained bruises in various stages of healing are a classic physical indicator of potential physical abuse.
Question 2: As a childcare provider, you are considered which type of professional regarding child abuse reporting?
- Optional reporter
- Mandated reporter (Correct answer)
- Voluntary reporter
- Discretionary reporter
Correct answer: Mandated reporter
Childcare providers are mandated reporters, meaning they are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
Question 3: Which type of maltreatment involves withholding food, clothing, shelter, or medical care from a child?
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Neglect (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Neglect
Neglect is the failure to provide a child with basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, supervision, or medical care.
Question 4: When a childcare worker suspects child abuse, when should they report it?
- After gathering complete proof
- Only if the child confirms it
- Immediately upon reasonable suspicion (Correct answer)
- After consulting with parents first
Correct answer: Immediately upon reasonable suspicion
Mandated reporters must report reasonable suspicion of abuse immediately — they do not need proof or confirmation before reporting.
Question 5: Which of the following is a behavioral indicator of possible child sexual abuse?
- Age-appropriate curiosity about body parts
- Suddenly acting younger than their age or regressing (Correct answer)
- Asking questions about babies
- Playing with dolls
Correct answer: Suddenly acting younger than their age or regressing
Sudden regression to younger behaviors, such as bedwetting or thumb-sucking, can be a behavioral sign of sexual abuse or trauma.
Question 6: To whom should childcare providers typically make an initial child abuse report?
- The child's pediatrician
- Child Protective Services (CPS) or local law enforcement (Correct answer)
- The center director only
- The child's other parent
Correct answer: Child Protective Services (CPS) or local law enforcement
Mandated reporters must report suspected abuse to Child Protective Services (CPS) or local law enforcement, not just to their supervisor.
CDC CDC Child Abuse Recognition & Mandated Reporting 1
Which of the following is considered a physical indicator of possible child abuse?