What should a counselor do if they suspect that a child's injuries are a result of abuse?

• A. Ignore the signs and move on
• B. Address the issue at the next counseling session
• C. Make a report to appropriate authorities without delay
• D. Discuss the situation with the child's parents first

Answer: (C)

When a counselor suspects that a child's injuries may be the result of abuse, the appropriate action is to make a report to the appropriate authorities without delay. This is crucial because counselors are often mandated reporters, meaning they are legally required to report any suspected child abuse to the relevant child protective services or law enforcement agencies.

Timeliness is critical in such situations because delaying the report could allow continued harm to the child or prevent necessary interventions. By reporting promptly, the counselor helps ensure that the child receives the protection and support they may need, while also allowing authorities to investigate the situation adequately.

Furthermore, addressing the issue at the next counseling session, ignoring the signs, or discussing the situation with the child's parents first could hinder the investigation and fail to protect the child effectively. In cases of suspected abuse, the priority must always be the well-being and safety of the child.