Who is considered a reportable victim of suspected child abuse?

• A. Any adult caregiver
• B. Any individual under the age of 18.
• C. Anyone over 18
• D. Only students in school

Answer: (B)

In child abuse reporting, the person who is considered a reportable victim is anyone who is under 18 years old. This definition ensures that every minor, regardless of whether they are in school or who their caregiver is, is protected and that reporting is triggered when there is reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect involving a child.

Adults—those 18 and older—are not the focus of child abuse reports in this framework, since the term “child” refers to someone under 18. Similarly, the role isn’t limited to students in school; a minor could be anywhere and still be a reportable victim if abuse or neglect is suspected.