Problem:
All 50 states have passed some form of mandatory reporting law for cases of child abuse and neglect. Although many states have also created legislation to make the reporting of elder abuse cases mandatory, there is still a great deal of controversy about these laws. Some believe that elders-like all adults-have the freedom to report or not to report a victimization to police. They contend that by making the reporting of such victimizations mandatory, this freedom is taken away from a subgroup of the population. Others, however, contend that because the elderly population is more likely to suffer particular cognitive disorders that may prevent them from seeking help, these mandatory reporting laws are necessary. Where do you stand on the issue? Is there some way to protect "at risk" groups of the elderly population without taking away the freedom of choice for the entire subgroup of those over a certain age? What are the benefits and costs of such legislation?