What must happen if a report does not indicate harm to a child?

If a report regarding potential child abuse does not indicate harm to a child, it must be referred for a general protective services assessment. This process is critical in ensuring that any concerns about the welfare of a child are thoroughly reviewed, even if there is no immediate evidence of harm. The assessment aims to evaluate the family's situation and determine if there are any underlying issues that need addressing to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. This step reflects the importance of a proactive approach in child protection, allowing additional support or intervention if necessary.

In contrast, disregarding the report would undermine the potential issues that may exist, while closing the report without action would prevent any further exploration of the circumstances surrounding the family. These options fail to prioritize the child's overall safety and well-being, which is the primary concern of child protective services. Immediate investigation would typically apply to situations where harm is evident or suspected, not to cases without any indication of harm. Thus, a referral for a general protective services assessment serves as a balanced approach that acknowledges concerns while prioritizing child safety.