Reporting Abuse

If you are concerned about a child's well-being, you have the power to make a difference.

If you suspect that a child may be experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, or neglect, please call the Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445).

Reporting suspected abuse or neglect is a responsible step in protecting a child. Arizona law requires specific individuals who suspect that a child has been harmed or neglected to report their concerns to the Department of Child Safety (DCS) or local law enforcement (ARS §13-3620.A). You may be the only advocate a child has—if they disclose abuse or neglect to you, protect them by reporting it to the Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445).

Understanding Child Abuse and Neglect

Child abuse and neglect occur when a parent, guardian, or caregiver allows harm to come to a child through physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, exploitation, or neglect.

• Physical Abuse: Non-accidental injuries such as bruises, broken bones, burns, or cuts.

• Sexual Abuse: Any sexual acts involving a child, including pornography, prostitution, or other inappropriate activities.

• Neglect: Failing to provide necessary care, supervision, shelter, or medical care, which includes leaving young children unsupervised or in unsafe conditions.

• Emotional Abuse: Behaviors that cause severe anxiety, depression, or aggression in a child, as diagnosed by a professional.

• Exploitation: Using a child for material gain.

• Abandonment: When a parent fails to provide care or maintain contact with a child intentionally and indefinitely.

Types of Child Abuse to Report

The four main types of abuse include:

• Physical Abuse: Non-accidental harm caused by actions like punching, beating, shaking, or burning.

• Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity involving a child.

• Neglect: Failing to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, supervision, or medical care.

• Emotional Abuse: Behaviors that harm a child’s mental health or social development.

Who is Required to Report?

Arizona law mandates that individuals who suspect child abuse must report it. This includes:

• Healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and therapists

• Law enforcement and members of the clergy

• Parents, guardians, and stepparents

• School staff and domestic violence advocates

• Any individual responsible for a child’s care

Those who report suspected abuse in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability. However, intentionally filing a false report is a criminal offense.

When to Report

A report should be made whenever someone reasonably believes that a child under 18 is being or has been abused, neglected, exploited, or abandoned. Additional incidents of abuse should also be reported even if a previous report was made. Reporting suspected abuse does not require proof, as investigation is the responsibility of child protective services.

How to Report Abuse

To report abuse, contact the DCS Statewide Toll-Free Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-767-2445 (1-888-SOS-CHILD) or your local law enforcement. Be prepared to provide:

• Child’s name, age, and gender

• Family members' names and contact information

• Child’s current condition

• Details of the suspected abuse or neglect

What Happens After a Report?

When you report abuse or neglect, you will speak with a trained social work professional who will ask for details about the child and family involved. If a report meets the criteria, a DCS Field Specialist will investigate through interviews with the child, family members, and relevant contacts. Should DCS confirm abuse or neglect, the accused will be notified of their right to appeal.

If you believe a child under 18 is at risk, report it to your local social services department, law enforcement (911), or the DCS Hotline (1-888-767-2445).

Support for the Child

When responding to a child who discloses abuse:

• Provide emotional support without questioning or showing strong emotions.

• Avoid confronting the offender or conducting an independent investigation.

• Do not allow the accused to interact with the child after the disclosure.

Taking these steps helps protect the child and ensures a fair investigation.