NCJ Number
227628
Date Published
2006
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This DVD provides information on Idaho's child abuse reporting law, with attention to the importance and logistics of complying with the law.
Abstract
The Idaho law requires all persons, regardless of their profession or organizational affiliation to report promptly suspicions that a child is being abused or neglected. The public is urged not to prejudge the potential outcomes of the reporting of suspicions of child abuse and neglect, even at the risk of being mistaken. The DVD advises the public to engage in good-faith reporting of child abuse or neglect while trusting that child protection agencies will determine whether child maltreatment is actually occurring. The DVD cautions against conducting a personal investigation prior to reporting suspicions of child maltreatment, although a few questions are suggested that might be asked of children who show signs of maltreatment. In order to assist the public in recognizing signs of child maltreatment, the DVD outlines observable indicators of child neglect, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. Details are also provided on how child protection agencies conduct their investigations and possible outcomes for substantiated cases of child maltreatment, based on the best interests of the child while ensuring the protection of parental rights. A listing of resources is provided.