If a child discloses abuse, what is the most appropriate first response from an adult?

When a child discloses abuse, the most appropriate first response is to reassure and inform the child that the disclosure will need to be reported. This response is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it provides immediate emotional support to the child, validating their feelings and experiences. By reassuring the child, the adult helps create a safe space where the child feels heard and understood, which is vital in encouraging them to share their experiences further.

Additionally, informing the child that the situation will need to be reported is important because it sets clear expectations and emphasizes that the adult takes the child’s disclosure seriously. This not only helps protect the child by initiating necessary actions to ensure their safety but also fosters trust between the child and the adult.

This approach is much more beneficial than ignoring the disclosure, as it could leave the child feeling abandoned or unsupported. Confronting the abuser immediately would likely put both the child and the adult in a dangerous situation and could potentially harm the investigation. Asking the child for more details can be problematic as it may lead to further distress or re-traumatization, especially in an initial response scenario. Therefore, providing reassurance and outlining the need to report ensures the child's safety while addressing their emotional needs.