Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Where are reports of child abuse and neglect primarily submitted?

1. Local Law Enforcement

2. State Central Register or the field office

3. Department of Education

4. Child Protective Services

The correct answer is: State Central Register or the field office

Reports of child abuse and neglect are primarily submitted to the State Central Register or the field office because these entities are designated as the primary receiving points for such reports. The State Central Register serves as a centralized database that tracks and processes cases of suspected abuse or neglect, helping to ensure appropriate investigation and monitoring. Field offices further facilitate the responsiveness and local handling of cases, providing direct support to communities and families. In this system, child abuse and neglect reports are collected systematically, allowing for timely investigations and interventions. This structure is essential to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of child protection efforts, ensuring that information is channeled through the proper governmental framework designed to address these serious issues. Although other entities like local law enforcement, the Department of Education, or Child Protective Services may be involved in the reporting or investigation processes, they typically do not serve as the primary initial point for submitting reports. Their roles are often supplemental to the functions served by the State Central Register and field offices, which have the primary responsibility for receiving and processing these critical reports.