Who is considered a mandated reporter?

A mandated reporter is any individual who is legally required to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect when they have knowledge of the abuse in their professional capacity. This includes a wide range of professionals, not limited to a specific occupation. The definition encompasses various roles across different fields, such as healthcare professionals, teachers, social workers, and yes, dental hygienists, among others.

Choosing the option that states "Any individual responsible for reporting suspected abuse" accurately reflects the broad definition of mandated reporters. These individuals are entrusted with the duty to report because of their relationship with children or their involvement in child welfare, ensuring that cases of abuse are identified and handled appropriately.

Other options may represent specific groups who are mandated reporters, such as teachers and dental hygienists, but they do not capture the entirety of the mandated reporter classification, which can include numerous professions. This is why the more inclusive response about the responsibility for reporting suspected abuse holds true, as it addresses the legal obligation shared by many individuals across various sectors.