Why aren't School Personnel Reporting Child Abuse in Wisconsin?

Abstract

A statewide survey was conducted among school personnel in Wisconsin to assess the degree to which school personnel were aware of their legal responsibility to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect. A total of 1,637 school personnel in 112 schools participated in the study. Data generated from the survey indicate that 49% of the survey sample have suspected a case of child abuse, while 55% have suspected a case of child neglect. However, only 31% of the suspected abuse cases and 30% of the suspected neglect cases were ever reported. Personal biases and myths were rationales offered for not reporting in 68% of the comments. Statements indicating a lack of knowledge or awareness were present in 63% of the responses. Although 54% of the respondents indicated their school districts had a reporting policy and set of procedures, 76% indicated that they did not have a copy of the policy or were unsure if they had ever received a copy.