Legal and Clinical Guidelines for Making a Child Maltreatment Report

Psychologists' role as mandated reporters of child maltreatment is an important responsibility. This article will provide direction to psychologists in interpreting state laws as well as practical and clinical guidance when confronted with making a report of child abuse. A review of the U.S. laws on child maltreatment reporting as they pertain to psychologists is provided. Psychologists will be guided through the process of making a report and how to handle this responsibility professionally and clinically. Important considerations are discussed with regard to psychologists maintaining compliance with their legal responsibilities and protecting children from hams. Recommendations for future training are provided.