Ethical and Diversity Considerations of Mandatory Reporting: Implications for Training

Mandatory reporting, a cornerstone of child protection, is intended to safeguard the welfare of children; however, the existing framework often fails to adequately consider the diverse needs and circumstances of marginalized families. This article highlights the need for greater attention related to reporting cases of suspected child maltreatment and advocates for a paradigm shift in training psychologists, highlighting diversity and multicultural competence as integral components. Drawing on a comprehensive review of literature, we shine a critical light on systemic failures of the child welfare system for marginalized families, including families of color and those living in poverty. When contemplating reporting, we urge trainees to consider how reporting bias might influence accurate reporting and highlight the importance of distinguishing between poverty and neglect. Through the application of a case example, we provide a nuanced discussion of an ethical decision-making process grounded in research that considers psychologists' legal and ethical responsibilities with particular attention to diversity variables. We conclude the article by providing teaching and training recommendations pursuant to the ethical and legal ramifications of mandatory reporting. The recommendations embrace ethical principles and prioritize diversity in mandatory reporting practices for a more just and equitable approach to child protection. Public Significance Statement This article advances ethical decision-making training practices by increasing awareness of the often unaddressed nuances in cases of suspected child maltreatment. Psychologists, in their roles as supervisors and educators, can heed the recommended classroom activities and ethical decision-making process presented in this article to ensure a more sound ethical decision-making process while minimizing bias and risk of harm to clients.