When a child discloses abuse but asks to protect the abuser, what balance must the professional strike?

• A. Child's safety and reporting requirements while supporting feelings.
• B. Protecting the abuser's privacy above all.
• C. Ignoring the disclosure.
• D. Immediate removal without reporting.

Answer: (A)

When a child discloses abuse but asks you to protect the abuser, the priority is the child’s safety and fulfilling reporting obligations, while also supporting the child’s feelings. You acknowledge what the child is feeling about the abuser but you cannot promise secrecy. Mandatory reporting laws require you to share the information with the appropriate authorities so the child can be protected and risks addressed.

In practice, respond with care: validate the child’s emotions and reassure them that you will take steps to keep them safe. Explain, in clear terms, that you must report the disclosure to child protective services or the relevant agency, and that you will work with the family and other professionals to create a safety plan. Begin this by assessing immediate danger and ensuring the child’s safety, then document the disclosure carefully, and involve the child’s guardians and required agencies as appropriate.

The aim is to protect the child while providing support and boundaries. Protecting the abuser’s privacy above the child’s safety isn’t appropriate, ignoring the disclosure isn’t acceptable, and removing the child without reporting is not a proper response. If there is imminent danger, safety actions are taken promptly, with reporting following the established protocols.