Law and Ethics Practice Exam

A mandated report for neglect is triggered when:

1. A client suggests a parent is negligent

2. A child is reported to be home alone

3. The parent is suspected of drug use

4. The client expresses concern for children

The correct answer is: A child is reported to be home alone

A mandated report for neglect is specifically triggered when there is a clear and immediate situation that poses a risk to a child's well-being. The scenario where a child is reported to be home alone indicates a potential neglect situation, as it can suggest a lack of proper supervision, which is critical for a child's safety. This situation would typically activate the duty to report, as it directly pertains to the welfare of a child and indicates that their basic needs may not be adequately met. While the other options involve elements of concern regarding parental behavior, they do not provide the same concrete evidence of immediate risk that home alone does. A client suggesting a parent is negligent is more subjective and may require further investigation. Similarly, merely suspecting a parent of drug use does not confirm neglect unless it is shown to affect the child's care. Lastly, a client's expressed concern for children is thoughtful but does not necessarily meet the threshold for reporting unless paired with specific evidence of neglect or danger.