What is the purpose of child protective services when abuse is reported?

The primary purpose of child protective services (CPS) when abuse is reported is to ensure the immediate safety of the child. This is a critical responsibility because the welfare of the child is paramount, and ensuring their safety allows for further steps to be taken, such as investigating the allegations. Once the immediate safety is secured, other services, such as counseling and support for the family, can be implemented.

While investigating allegations and providing counseling are important functions of CPS, the priority remains on obtaining a safe environment for the child. Mediation of family disputes, while potentially beneficial in many contexts, is not the primary role of CPS in cases of reported abuse. Instead, CPS focuses on protecting the child first and foremost from any imminent threats to their safety.