Colorado POST Practice Exam

Who is required by law to report child abuse?

1. Only law enforcement officers

2. Teachers, school authorities, child care personnel, physicians, therapists, etc.

3. Parents and guardians

4. Only healthcare professionals

The correct answer is: Teachers, school authorities, child care personnel, physicians, therapists, etc.

The requirement to report child abuse encompasses a wide range of professionals, making that choice the most accurate. Certain professions, including teachers, school authorities, childcare personnel, physicians, therapists, and others that work closely with children, are considered mandated reporters. This means they have a legal obligation to report any suspicions or evidence of child abuse to the appropriate authorities. This obligation is critical because these professionals are often in unique positions to identify signs of abuse due to their regular interactions with children. The law aims to protect vulnerable children by ensuring that those who have the most contact with them are vigilant and proactive in reporting any potential abuse. Other individuals, such as parents and guardians, while certainly encouraged to report suspected abuse, do not have the same legal requirements as mandated reporters. Similarly, while healthcare professionals are also mandated reporters, it's the broader category that includes various personnel working with children that emphasizes the collective responsibility in safeguarding children from abuse.