reporting child abuse

Question 1

What are reasonable grounds for suspected child abuse and neglect?

Answer 1

1. A child states they have been injured or sexually abused
2. A relative friend acquaintance states the child has been physically injured or sexually abused
3. Professional observation of the child’s behaviour lead the psycologist to form a belief that the child has been physically injured or sexually abused

Question 2

When a client reports a crime what should you consider

Answer 2

1. The client’s best interest
2. Is there immediate and specified risk of harm to an identifiable person
3. The ongoing therapeutic relationship

Question 3

Can a psychologist be charged if they fail to report a crime that would atttract a prison sentence of five years or more

Answer 3

Can only happen if there is approval from the attorney general and it is unlikely they would give approval in circumstances where a psychologist was able to provide a reasonable explanation for not reporting the crime

Question 4

Can a psychologist be held liable in civil law for failing to exercise due care to the client or third parties

Answer 4

Yes but not in criminal law

Question 5

What do you do if you are concerned about the safety of a client or other identifiable persons

Answer 5

Call the police

Question 6

Should you document you rdecision-making processes when reporting child abuse

Answer 6

YES