Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What can a clergy member report to an agency if they learned of abuse prior to January 1, 1997?

1. Only if the abuse was reported previously

2. Knowledge or suspicion of past sexual abuse

3. All past knowledge of child abuse

4. Only current incidents of abuse

The correct answer is: Knowledge or suspicion of past sexual abuse

The correct choice reflects the legal and ethical obligations that clergy members have concerning the reporting of child abuse, particularly when it pertains to events prior to the established reporting laws. Under certain statutes, clergy members may be mandated reporters, which means they must report instances of abuse when they gain knowledge or have a suspicion of ongoing abuse or specific incidents, even if those incidents occurred before a particular date—such as January 1, 1997, in this context. In this scenario, clergy members are typically required to report any knowledge or suspicion of past sexual abuse. This is significant because, although certain reporting laws may have evolved or changed, the responsibility of clergy who have information that could protect a vulnerable population remains critical. Reporting not only serves the purpose of protecting potential future victims but also aligns with ethical responsibilities to serve the community. The possibility of reporting how knowledge or suspicion of past abuse plays a crucial role in protecting individuals from continued harm is essential. The other options do not encapsulate this broader protective ethos or legal mandate surrounding past incidents, therefore making that response the most accurate and aligned with the ethical requirements placed on clergy members in situations involving abuse awareness.