Who can be held accountable for failing to report suspected child abuse?

The correct answer is based on the understanding that accountability for failing to report suspected child abuse extends to any adult who has knowledge of the abuse. This principle is grounded in the legal and ethical obligation to protect children from harm. In many jurisdictions, the law mandates that individuals who are aware of or suspect abuse, regardless of their relationship to the child, have a duty to report it to the proper authorities.

This broad accountability ensures that child welfare is prioritized and that anyone in a position to intervene, whether a neighbor, teacher, healthcare provider, or family member, can act to protect the child. By enabling all adults to report suspected abuse, the system fosters a community-based approach to safeguarding children, as it acknowledges that abuse can occur in various settings and that intervention can occur from multiple positions.

The other choices reflect a more limited view that does not account for the responsibilities placed upon the wider community. By restricting accountability to only certain groups, such as professionals or family members, the potential for critical interventions is reduced, which can ultimately put children at greater risk.