Which term best describes people who are legally required to report suspected child abuse?

• A. Mandated reporters
• B. Suspects
• C. Victims
• D. Witnesses

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is the legal duty to report suspected child abuse. People described as mandated reporters are those who, due to their profession or role, are required by law to report any reasonable suspicion of abuse to the appropriate authorities, such as child protective services or the police. This designation signals not just a belief or concern, but a formal obligation designed to trigger a timely investigation and protect the child. In most places, there are protections for reporters who act in good faith, and penalties for failing to report when required. The other terms don’t convey this mandatory duty: suspects are those accused of abuse, victims are the harmed individuals, and witnesses are those who may have seen something but aren’t universally required by law to report.