Kindergarten teachers' experience of reporting child abuse in Taiwan Dancing on the edge

Abstract

Objective To explore the experiences of Taiwan’s kindergarten teachers when suspecting child abuse.

Method Grounded theory method was used to analyze data from a purposive sample of 20 Taiwanese kindergarten teachers recruited from three kindergartens in Taiwan. Four focus groups lasting between 60–90 min were conducted. Data were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results The model of “dancing on the edge” was the substantive theory developed from this study. Four major categorical themes emerged from the kindergarten teachers’ work with abused children and their families: preserving relationships, avoiding harm, obligation, and maintaining balance. The dance between advocacy and risk is not easily choreographed and balanced. While attempted to avoid harm, teachers feel the pull of obligation and preserving relationships.

Conclusions Reporting child abuse is more than a legal requirement; it is a social process involving a dance between advocacy and personal safety. A critical analysis on the dynamics and interaction between the child, mandated reporters, institutional system, community and society is imperative.

Keywords: Child abuse - Education - Kindergarten teacher - Legal ethics - Mandatory report