What Should I Do if a Child Tells Me They've Been Abused?

Believe the child

  • Believe a child if they tell you something. False reporting is a myth - only 3% of children make up claims of abuse; however, children often take back what they say once adults act improperly.
  • Try to be calm. Assure the child you're listening and what she/he has to say is important.
  • Let them know that it wasn't their fault. 

Talk to the child

  • Listen - let the child do the talking.
  • You can ask if they are ok - be human
  • Ask Open questions - who, what, where questions

Don't s

  • Don't conduct an investigation
  • Don't ask leading or suggestive questions. Don't insert the names of an adult you may suspect - let the child do the talking.
  • Don't interrupt the child

Young children

  • ask simple questions & use simple language
  • avoid questions related to time
  • avoid why questions

Report the abuse

  • Call 911 or 410-361-2235 or your local agency CLICK HERE for #s
  • All investigations are confidential and you can report anonymously
  • Collect your facts and write down notes
  • When reporting try to have:
  • § Child's Name
  • § Age or Date of Birth
  • § Present Location of Child
  • § Permanent address
  • § Caregiver's Name and Address
  • § Brief description of the allegations
  • Let 911 help you - ask them questions if you are confused.