Final answer:
An effective police response to child abuse and neglect should never involve minimizing, denying, or blaming the children. Such behaviors can harm the child's welfare and are not part of a professional investigation. Parents are also expected to use available public or private services to prevent neglect.
Step-by-step explanation:
An effective police response to reports of child abuse and neglect should not include minimizing, denying, and blaming the children for the abuse.
Child abuse occurs in all strata of society and is reported by professionals as well as anonymous sources and other relatives. It is important for law enforcement personnel to take all reports seriously and conduct thorough investigations to protect the welfare of the child. Actions such as making light of the abuse, denying its severity, or blaming the victim are detrimental and counterproductive to the wellbeing of the child.
When information or assistance from public or private services are available, parents are expected to use these services to prevent neglect. Failure to utilize such support systems may lead to intervention by child welfare services.