Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Which scenario requires mandatory reporting under child protection laws?

1. A consensual relationship between two minors

2. When a minor is involved with an adult

3. Alcohol-fueled incidents among minors

4. Physical altercations between minors

The correct answer is: When a minor is involved with an adult

Mandatory reporting under child protection laws is primarily concerned with situations that pose a risk of harm to a minor. The scenario that necessitates mandatory reporting involves a minor being involved with an adult. This often raises significant concerns regarding the potential for exploitation, abuse, and violation of legal boundaries, such as statutory rape laws. Social workers, therapists, and other mandated reporters are required to report such relationships to ensure the safety and protection of the minor, as these situations can lead to severe emotional and physical harm. In contrast, relationships between two minors, even if consensual, do not typically trigger mandatory reporting unless there is evidence of coercion, exploitation, or violation of other laws. Alcohol-fueled incidents among minors and physical altercations between them are concerning and may require intervention, but they do not automatically warrant mandatory reporting under child protection statutes unless there is clear evidence of abuse or injury that needs professional assessment and intervention. Therefore, the involvement of a minor with an adult distinctly highlights the need for protective action.