Who Need the Child Abuse Prevention Course?
In most areas of the United State, mandatory reporters are those who are required to report any and all suspected cases of child abuse that they are aware of. It is usually leaders in the community, first responders, medical workers, education workers, and those who are in close and constant contact with children who are considered mandatory abuse reporters. As of January 2008, 48 States, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have certain professions that are listed as mandatory reporters. Eighteen States and Puerto Rico designate all members of the community as being obligated to report child abuse instances, with 16 States also specifying certain professions as being obligated to report any and all known and suspected child abuse. “Many community professionals are involved in the identification, investigation, prevention, and treatment of child maltreatment. First responders, including emergency medical technicians (EMTs), law enforcement officers, and CPS workers, often are the first professionals to arrive at a scene where child maltreatment may have occurred or where children may be at risk for being abused or neglected. When first responders encounter a suspected case of child maltreatment, their initial objectives are to evaluate and address immediate medical and psychological needs, to assess and ensure the safety of victims, and to secure the scene in order to collect and preserve evidence” (Child Welfare).
Understanding the Child Abuse Prevention Course Goals
The workshop training manual is designed to:
- Helps first responders, mandatory reporters, and others in the community recognize the various types of child maltreatment and recognize warning signs of abuse in children.
- Provides an overview of the process involved for reporting abuse, the process of investigation, and the legal obligations and rights of mandatory reporters.
- Explains how individuals should prepare for and provide testimony regarding their report of abuse in any court appearance or trail stemming from a child abuse case.
- Outlines how the community as a whole can respond to child maltreatment cases in emergencies and disasters, and how to make children safer.