Question

A child disclosed sexual abuse by her father and the father is still at the home, you must:

A) Immediately remove the child from the home and place them in a safe environment.
B) Report the allegation to the appropriate child protective services or law enforcement agency.
C) Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the veracity of the child's disclosure.
D) Ensure the child has access to appropriate counseling and support services.

Answer 1

The appropriate response to a child disclosing sexual abuse is to report the allegation to child protective services or law enforcement, as child safety is paramount. Professionals are mandated reporters and such claims initiate investigations and services to support the child's recovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a child discloses sexual abuse by their father and the father is still in the home, it is critical to immediately ensure the child’s safety. The course of action includes reporting the allegation to the appropriate child protective services or law enforcement agency, which is mandated for professionals such as teachers and social service personnel. These reports trigger an investigation into the abuse claim, which is necessary to protect the child and possibly remove them from an unsafe environment. Additionally, providing the child with access to appropriate counseling and support services is vital for their wellbeing. Child abuse, which can come in various forms like neglect, physical, sexual, psychological maltreatment, and medical neglect, has a significant impact on both the individuals involved and society as a whole.