In this interview, Dr. Kathryn Krase shares her professional advice on mandated reporting with Ray Barrett, the CEO of the Telehealth Certification Institute. Dr. Krase is a lawyer, social worker, and an expert in preparing professionals for the ethical reporting of suspected child maltreatment. She is the co-author of two books: Child Welfare: Preparing Social Workers for Practice in the Field (2021), and, Mandated Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect: A Practical Guide for Social Workers (2009). Over the past decade, the main subject of her research and writing has been the disproportionate representation of BIPOC children in reports to child protective services, and the role that bias plays in the making of those reports. As an expert in mandated reporting bias, Dr. Krase examines how bias disproportionately affects families who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). For example, according to Dr. Krase, 25% of the 4 million yearly reports are made against Black children, while only 15% of the U.S. child population is Black.

Dr. Krase’s holistic orientation on reporting stems from her early work experience at the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children—the first child advocacy organization in the world—and her role as a practitioner at the family level. By using current research studies, Dr. Krase presents key topics such as overreporting consequences, mandated reporter requirements, and the legal protections that help clinicians make ethical decisions.

Dr. Krase encourages practitioners of all levels to use self-reflection as they confront their own backgrounds. Since beliefs or assumptions as a reporter can impact who is reported, familiarizing yourself with circumstances that have bias potential can prepare you for tough situations. You can listen now to learn more about this much-needed professional practice area!

You can read more about Dr. Krase on her website here and about her work with mandated reporting here.