Explores effect of child abuse reporting on counselor-client relationship, mental health profession, and child protective services system. Uses ecological systems approach in exploration of interventions needed to help resolve child abuse reporting dilemma. Within ecosystems framework, discusses ethical guidelines and policymaking for reporting…

All states have laws mandating that certain individuals report suspected occurrences of child abuse. Mandatory reporting statutes, their administration, and their judicial interpretation have created many ethical, legal, and clinical dilemmas. The abrogation of the confidentiality in the therapeutic relationship is probably the foremost ethical…

Reviews the statutory and case law regarding release of client information in three life endangering situations: child abuse, protection of third parties, and suicide. Describes the general principles of confidentiality and some specific legal issues for each of these three areas. (LLL)

Addresses pertinent aspects of law and ethics as they relate to practitioners in counseling and guidance. Identifies major areas and cites cases that involve civil liability litigation. Also discusses the rights of minors in cases dealing with child abuse and abortion. (ML)

Discusses the legal, professional, and ethical duties of teachers who suspect the maltreatment or neglect of children. Presents statistical evidence that indicates that teachers are not fulfilling their duties with respect to detecting and reporting suspected abuse. Considers the implications for educational policy as it affects teachers. (JS)