Responding to Direct Disclosers: The Role of Child and Youth Professionals |
WWW.VIRTUALLABSCHOOL.ORG
ACTIVITY ID: 26371
Name
Certifier
Date
|
---|---|
Directions: Use this guide to support conversation with staff about what to do if a child or youth in your program discloses abuse. As a child and youth professional, it is your responsibility to take necessary and appropriate action when a child discloses sensitive information to you regarding an abusive or neglectful situation that they experienced. Research indicates that an adult’s response to a child discloser has a direct impact on their recovery. It is important that you communicate to the child or youth that you are glad they came to you, that you are a safe person to share the information with, that you believe them, and that they are not alone. Remember, any direct disclosure from a child or youth requires an immediate report to the installation’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP). Here are some additional guidelines to help you talk with a child who discloses maltreatment:
Remember that children and youth who disclose abuse and neglect are often frightened or anxious and will need reassurance, encouragement, and support in the weeks following disclosure. Adapted from https://safekidsthrive.org/prevention-topics/reporting/responding-to-direct-disclosures/. |