At what age does a person no longer qualify as a child under the CPSL?

Under the Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) in Pennsylvania, a person is considered a child until the age of 18. This definition is significant because it sets the parameters for who is protected under child abuse laws and dictates the responsibilities of mandated reporters. Individuals under 18 years of age are entitled to the protections established to ensure their safety and well-being, which includes provisions for reporting suspected abuse.

Recognizing 18 as the cutoff age is key for professionals working with children, as it impacts how they approach cases involving minors. Those who are 18 and older are considered legal adults, and while they may still experience abuse, the reporting guidelines for adult situations vary from those specific to minors. This distinction is important for ensuring that appropriate interventions are made in cases of abuse, depending on the age of the individual involved.