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Abstract: 

Professionals responding to suspected abuse face hard work and difficult decision-making. Investigating and intervening responsibly, ethically, and thoroughly is challenging, particularly when resources are scarce and caseloads are high. Alleged victims who have difficulty communicating, perpetrators invested in self-protection, and witnesses who are fearful to speak are but a few of the frequent challenges. Professionals also face community pressure, for example, to “do something” about a vulnerable adult who is self-neglecting or a slightly confused yet competent elder refusing intervention in a situation of “undue influence.” Occasionally, high-profile cases attract media attention or the concern of public officials. The possibility of ethics violation charges, licensing complaints, and lawsuits also necessitates professional protections. This column will discuss steps abuse professionals can and should take to protect themselves in the course of fulfilling their job responsibilities.

Keywords: necessity for professional protection; steps abuse professionals can and should take to protect themselves

Affiliations:  1: sociologist .