NCJ Number
170866
Date Published
1993
Length
70 pages
Annotation
This book discusses the basic elements necessary to comply with specific State reporting statutes on child abuse, with particular reference to mandatory reporting requirements for school personnel.
Abstract
The book reflects a compilation and analysis of all 50 States' and the District of Columbia's reporting statutes, outlining the requirements imposed on mandatory reporters employed in public schools and in other professions. In addition to identifying specific requirements by State, the book identifies categories common to all State reporting statutes. These categories are used to highlight those areas that school personnel need to consider when reporting suspected child abuse. Each category is discussed, and variations within a category are presented. Appendixes at the end of each chapter list both categories and States, showing which States ascribe to various elements within a category and allowing a comparison across States. Using this structured presentation, a professional can quickly determine what is required within a category State by State. The book advises that educators develop a comprehensive training program within their school districts and require all school employees who have contact with children to attend, at a minimum, an initial training session to help them understand and comply with a State's reporting requirements. Follow-up training at intervals of 2 or more years would inform educators of any changes in a State's reporting requirements. A table of statutes, a table of cases, and 2 references