You are an intern assigned to work with a child whose parents are concerned about her lack of boundaries following an incident in which she was touched inappropriately by another child. You are using doll play to help the child practice saying ‘no’ when the doll character feels uncomfortable with others invading her personal space. When the child’s father comes to pick her up, he tries to help her on with her coat, but the child says, “I don’t want you to touch me.” Her father is startled and angrily asks what you have done to his child, and then quickly exits with the child. You are not aware of any indications of physical or sexual abuse within the family and, in discussing the incident with another intern after the child and father leave, are told that the incident was probably simply the child practicing asserting her boundaries. You cannot consult your supervisor because it is Friday and her day off, and she has not provided a contact number where you can reach her.
Discuss the following:
What concerns would you have if you were the intern?
What are the possible actions that could be taken in this situation?
What does it mean to be a mandated reporter?