What actions should a mandated reporter avoid when they suspect child abuse?

A mandated reporter should avoid conducting their own investigation when they suspect child abuse because their role is to report the suspicion to the appropriate authorities rather than to try to gather evidence or interrogate individuals. The responsibility of investigating allegations of child abuse lies with trained professionals, such as law enforcement and child protective services, who have the skills and authority to handle these situations effectively. Unauthorized investigations by the mandated reporter can jeopardize the safety of the child, may potentially interfere with official investigations, and may lead to legal repercussions for the reporter if they take actions beyond their responsibilities.

In contrast, reporting to the police immediately, discussing suspicions with the suspected abuser, and contacting the child's parents may involve actions that are outside the scope of a mandated reporter's role. Reporting to the police is appropriate if there is an immediate safety concern, but it should be done according to the protocols established for reporting suspected abuse. Similarly, discussing suspicions with the suspected abuser can compromise the investigation and put the child at risk, and contacting the child's parents could lead to further harm, especially if the parents are involved in the abuse.