by Chola Mccabe

Created on: September 11, 2009   Last Updated: September 16, 2009

How To Report Suspected Child Abuse

Child abuse is a terrible thing. Robbing a child of not only their innocence, but very possibly robbing them of ever having a normal life. Abused children often feel too afraid to turn to anyone with their problems, either because they have been threatened into staying quiet, or they feel ashamed to admit things that are happening to them. Too many people ignore child abuse when they see or suspect it.

Perhaps they aren't sure enough, or they are scared that it will make the situation worse, or maybe they just want to "mind their own business". I am sure we have all come across a situation that we knew was wrong, yet didn't feel sure enough to report it. It is everyone's duty to protect all of our children, so here is how to report child abuse properly.

1. First, contact your local authorities. Explain the situation as clearly and as detailed as possible. Provide any names, children's ages,and addresses that you can. You can choose to stay anonymous if you like. They should be able to take it from there.

2. If the police do not respond to you immediately, or you feel you are not being taken seriously, contact your local branch of CPS (Child Protective Services). Again, provide any information you can such as names, addresses, and the situation that led you to believe there is abuse taking place.

3. Be persistent. False reports are made all the time, therefore you may have to contact the police or CPS more than once. Make it known to them that your report is serious, and that a child is in real danger.

4. If you feel the child is in immediate danger, call 911 right away.

Remember, it is always better to report child abuse and be wrong than to ignore the situation. It is illegal to file a false report, but not if you had genuine concern for a child's well-being. How many children could be saved just from a concerned neighbor picking up a phone and taking that chance? There are far too many abused, neglected, and exploited children not only in far away countries, but right here in our own backyard.

This type of treatment is a significant contribution to how these children will become as adults, as many of them will grow up to become abusers themselves. Whether it is physical, sexual, or neglect, it is abuse and no child should have to endure such treatment. Together, we can all do our part to help keep our children safe.

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