What is a "perpetrator" under Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law?

A "perpetrator" under Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law is defined as an individual who is responsible for causing, permitting, or actively contributing to child abuse. This definition is crucial because it identifies the direct involvement of a person in the abusive behavior or in allowing the abuse to occur. Understanding this term is essential for recognizing the parties responsible for child abuse and determining accountability within the protective framework established by the law.

In contrast, the other options highlight different roles or situations related to child abuse but do not fit the legal definition of a perpetrator. Observers who fail to report, victims of abuse, and individuals who report abuse to authorities play important roles in the context of child protection, yet they do not constitute the perpetrators of the abuse themselves. By clarifying the specific responsibilities of a perpetrator, the law aims to pinpoint those who pose a risk or harm to children, thereby facilitating effective intervention and prevention measures.