Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 2025 – Your All-in-One Resource to Master Exam 1!

The appropriate action for a child protection worker under mandatory reporting laws is to contact the authorities to report the suspected abuse. Mandatory reporting laws are designed to protect children from harm by ensuring that suspected abuse or neglect is reported promptly to the appropriate authorities who are equipped to investigate and intervene as necessary. These laws emphasize the importance of swift action to safeguard the child’s welfare.

When a report of potential abuse is made, it is crucial to bypass discussions with the caregiver or reviewing evidence privately, as these actions could pose a risk to the child. Engaging the caregiver could potentially alert them to the investigation and lead to further harm or the destruction of evidence. Similarly, delaying action to consult with other professionals, while sometimes valuable in processing information, does not replace the obligation to report when abuse is suspected. The primary focus must always be the safety and well-being of the child, making immediate reporting the correct course of action.