How to Report
1-800-252-5400 (OR 911 IF IMMINENT DANGER) or
https://www.txabusehotline.org/
I. WHAT IS CHILD ABUSE?
- PHYSICAL ABUSE: Any non-accidental physical injury caused by the child’s caretaker. Does not necessarily include the intent to injure; may be the result of over discipline or inappropriate punishment.
- SEXUAL ABUSE: Any contacts or interactions between a child and an adult in which the child is being used for the sexual stimulation of the perpetrator or another person.
- EMOTIONAL MALTREATMENT: Blaming, belittling or rejecting a child; treating siblings unequally; persistent lack of concern by caretaker for child’s welfare.
- NEGLECT: Inattention to basic needs of a child such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care and supervision. Tends to be chronic.
Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect
In Texas, laws governing reporting of child abuse and neglect: Chapter 261 of the Texas Family Code.
- A report of child abuse is not an accusation or a proven fact, Does not require a reporter to be certain of abuse or neglect.
- In Texas: Degree of certainty which must be met is that the person reporting has "cause to believe" that abuse or neglect has occurred or will occur.
- CPS investigates and will determine the nature and extent of the problem, evaluate the child’s condition and safety, and if appropriate, initiate action to protect the child.
- Law enforcement agency receives the report.
Mandated Reporters by Law
Professionals specifically are mandated to report within 48 hours from discovery or suspicion.
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