Child Abuse Prevention, Recognition, and Mandatory Reporting Flashcards
7 cards from real CDA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Child Abuse Prevention, Recognition, and Mandatory Reporting flashcards as text
Under mandatory reporting laws, a CDA professional is required to report suspected child abuse when:
Answer: They have a reasonable suspicion that a child has been abused or neglected
Mandated reporters are required to report when they have reasonable suspicion or cause to believe that abuse or neglect has occurred—proof is not required.
What is the primary purpose of mandatory reporting laws for child care professionals?
Answer: To ensure that suspected abuse is investigated by trained child protective services professionals
Mandatory reporting laws exist to ensure that trained child protective services professionals can investigate and intervene in cases of suspected child abuse or neglect.
Which of the following statements about confidentiality and mandatory reporting is true?
Answer: Mandatory reporting requirements override confidentiality obligations when child safety is at risk
Mandatory reporting laws supersede confidentiality agreements; child safety takes priority, and caregivers must report suspected abuse regardless of privacy policies.
After reporting suspected child abuse, a CDA professional should:
Answer: Document the report, including date, time, and the name of the person who received the report
After making a report, professionals should document the details including the date, time, agency contacted, and the name of the person who received the report for their own records.
A coworker tells you they observed signs of abuse but is afraid to report because they might be wrong. How should you respond?
Answer: Encourage them to report, since mandated reporters are protected from liability for good-faith reports
Mandated reporters who make good-faith reports of suspected abuse are legally protected from liability, even if the report is later found to be unsubstantiated.
Who is typically responsible for investigating a report of suspected child abuse filed by a CDA professional?
Answer: Local law enforcement or child protective services
Reports of suspected child abuse are investigated by child protective services (CPS) agencies and/or law enforcement, not by child care professionals.
In which situation should a CDA professional NOT delay making a report of suspected abuse?
Answer: When a child discloses abuse directly or shows clear physical indicators
A direct disclosure by a child or clear physical indicators of abuse require an immediate report without delay, as a child's safety must be the top priority.