School Counselor Interview Question: What would you do if...?

Question

You as a counselor had to present at a student's award

ceremony and right before you are about to start, a group of

students approach you and tell you that their friend told

them that they are being abused by their father. How would

you handle this situation?

Answer 1

I would take care of the child's problem first! I also work at a school and deal with children. The child always but ALWAYS comes first. Have someone else a principle or another teacher present the award. Your duty is to those in need. These kinds of situations can't wait. I think to many times that is why are young people are so messed up. No one is really listening to them and they are human and can lead just a stressful life as an adult. Keep in mind that if it were your child you would want his/her needs met first before some awards ceremony.

Answer 2

i think i would go to the ceremony first, do what i got to do, and then quickly go attend the student that is being abused.

Answer 3

call DCS without delay

Answer 4

Call the athorities as required by federal law.

Answer 5

where is this question coming from?

You are not a counselor yet, that is clear. you cannot be if you are asking the question. Are you asking it because it might come up in an interview>?

teachers,  counselors, administrators school nurses - any school employees... are mandated reporters.

The question is designed to see if you know what mandated reporting means  - who would you contact and the time frame involved. Further, it is designed to see if you follow correct procedure - about the dangers of investigating or time loss.

So - whatever training program you are in - THIS cannot wait - our first responsibility is to the safety and care of our students. Get on your program as to why they have not covered this with you - and search the net for mandated reporter procedures in your state.