Mandatory reporting of child maltreatment presents a challenging clinical issue for social workers who find themselves obligated to report the maltreatment while managing an often discordant therapeutic alliance with the family. The betrayal and anger felt by families following the report may result in the discontinuation of treatment or negatively impact further clinical work. Registered social workers participated in an online survey examining how they maintain the therapeutic alliance in the face of mandatory reporting. Results showed numerous strategies employed before and following the disclosure of reportable material. Practice principles for clinicians are suggested.
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