Importance of Reporting Suspected Child Abuse
All too often, there are stories in the news or communities, and people wonder why no one knew or why nothing was done. Reporting suspected child abuse could ultimately save a child’s life or stop the harm they are experiencing. Children usually cannot report the abuse themselves for a variety of reasons including fear, a belief it is their “secret,” or intimidation. Children are raised to trust adults, and when they experience abuse, many children are confused by what they are feeling, or if it is their fault. Often, the abusers threaten consequences that makes the child fearful and apprehensive to report. As an adult, reporting suspected child abuse means serving as a voice for the child who cannot report the abuse on their own. Many adults are reluctant to report suspected abuse because they are not 100% certain if child abuse is happening, think it is not their business, or are worried about starting conflict and experiencing backlash if they are wrong. Reporti...