If you ever learn that a child may have been abused, it's important that you...
DO:
- Speak with the child privately, one time.
- Remain calm and listen carefully.
- Use simple, open-ended prompts and allow the child to use their own words.
- "Tell me what happened."
- "Tell me more about that."
- "Help me understand what you mean when you say..."
- Thank them for telling you.
- Reassure them the abuse was not their fault.
- Let them know you have a responsibility to tell another adult to help make sure they're safe.
- File a report with local law enforcement immediately.
AVOID:
- Asking the child to speak to multiple people or repeat themselves.
- Expressing shock, overwhelming sadness, or anger - the child may think they are in trouble or feel worried about your feelings, and be less open to telling you what happened.
- Asking the child for details. Trying to investigate on your own can be harmful and is not necessary.
- Asking leading questions or making guesses about what happened, for example:
- "Did [person's name] do that?"
- "Did they touch your [body part]?"
- Asking "Why?" questions, which can make the child feel like they made a mistake or that the abuse is their fault.
- Making judgmental comments about the suspect or contacting the suspect.
Responding to a child when you're worried about possible abuse can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re worried about saying the “right” thing, wondering how reporting will affect the child, or the child's disclosure is bringing up strong feelings for you.
When you’re not sure what to say or do, remember:
This child has identified you as a person they can trust. Remain calm and be patient with the child. Ask what happened, letting the child use their own words. Report any suspected abuse or neglect to the MA Child Abuse Emergency Line at 1-800-792-5200. When you have questions about what to do, ask us!
In an emergency, call 911.
Download a 'Know How to Respond' PDF in English, en español, 汉语, kreyòl ayisyen, or en português.