At the request of the New Jersey Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect’s Subcommittee on Race, Poverty and Neglect, Action Research conducted an assessment of mandated reporters’ training, reporting behaviors, and reporting experiences in New Jersey. The project examines where policy and practice changes could better equip reporters to strengthen decision-making in child neglect reporting, reducing unnecessary investigations and trauma to children and families.

Action Research conducted 15 focus groups and interviews with 48 professionals across law enforcement, healthcare, and education; reviewed literature and reform efforts; and analyzed NCANDS data to compare New Jersey with national trends in neglect reporting and investigations. The team also engaged with stakeholders at a statewide conference and monitored related policy developments.

Findings highlight five key areas shaping reporters’ experiences: awareness and expectations, training, reporting triggers and preventive measures, reporting practices and protocols, and communication with the child welfare agency. Together, these insights point to opportunities for improving mandated reporter training, communication, and support.

Read the full slide deck here.