What is good advice to follow when a child reports abuse to you?

When a child reports abuse, it is crucial to maintain a calm and composed demeanor, which is why avoiding displaying shock is important. Children often feel vulnerable and may already be anxious about disclosing such sensitive information; showing surprise or distress can discourage them from sharing more details or could even lead them to feel guilty or ashamed for speaking up. By remaining neutral and supportive, you create a safe space that encourages the child to continue talking and expressing their feelings, which is essential for understanding the full context of the situation and providing appropriate support.

The other options might inadvertently escalate the situation or unwittingly compromise the child's safety or emotional well-being. For example, yelling for help could frighten the child or make them feel that their disclosure is being treated lightly. Reporting to the media is not appropriate, as this could violate the child's privacy and trust. Similarly, calling the child's parents right away without first ensuring that it is safe to do so might put the child at further risk or lead to retaliation.