Who are considered mandatory reporters?

Mandatory reporters are individuals who are legally required to report any suspected cases of abuse or neglect. This designation typically includes a wide range of professionals whose work involves regular contact with children. People who care for children as part of their professional duties, such as teachers, child care workers, social workers, and healthcare providers, are all included in this category. Their interaction with children places them in a unique position to recognize signs of abuse or neglect, making their reports crucial for the protection of vulnerable individuals.

In this context, focusing solely on doctors and nurses, school administrators, or parents and guardians does not encompass the broader spectrum of individuals who have a responsibility to report. While those groups may play significant roles in child welfare, the requirement to report applies specifically to those whose professional duties place them in direct, regular contact with children. As such, professionals in roles dedicated to child care bear the obligation to act when they suspect abuse or neglect, ensuring the safety and well-being of children in their care.