Very recently I performed an Anti-Bullying program at a distant school.== in a different state 4 hours away. In part of this program I said the following, "One type of bullying behavior is pushing or hitting...."
A young assistant standing next to me said quietly, "Yeah, my Dad does that."
"Excuse me?" I said, acting if I hadn't heard.
In what appeared complete sincerity the 4th grade student said, "My Dad does that. He says its to make me tougher."
After the program I called the counselor who hired me aside and reported the incident to her. She took it seriously, yet it was one incident in a very busy field day for her.
Should I do more? Am I legally responsible to report the conversation elsewhere? Am I morally responsible? This is just one hint of possible child abuse. I did something, but did I do the right thing?
Posted by Samprimary (Member # 8561) on :
Which state is this? Find out who at the student's school is a mandated reporter and inform them.
Posted by Samprimary (Member # 8561) on :
quote:Am I legally responsible to report the conversation elsewhere?
I'd say it's an irrelevant question, also. Just treat yourself as a mandated reporter in this case. report the situation without any bias and, in the case that this appears to have more backing or shows a pattern, it will probably be to the child's benefit.
Posted by Geraine (Member # 9913) on :
quote:Originally posted by Samprimary:
quote:Am I legally responsible to report the conversation elsewhere?
I'd say it's an irrelevant question, also. Just treat yourself as a mandated reporter in this case. report the situation without any bias and, in the case that this appears to have more backing or shows a pattern, it will probably be to the child's benefit.
This. Regardless of who you told at the school, I would report it to the appropriate authorities. It may be nothing, but it may be something.
When I was a kid my dad would get rough with us. He'd push us around and wrestle with us, but he never harmed us. We were fans of WWF back then and would live jumping off couches onto my dad and wrestle with him. It was fun father / sons time, and we were never hurt.
Regardless, let the authorities decide. If it is nothing, the worse that could happen is the father is annoyed and complains. The best that could happen is a kid gets some help.
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
I know in my state anyone who works at the school is considered a mandatory reporter. I know this is from a month ago but if you are still doubting call the school principal and discuss the situation directly with them. They will know how to best handle the situation.