True or false: It is the adult's responsibility to protect children regardless of whether they are mandated reporters.

The statement is true because protecting children is a fundamental responsibility shared by all adults in society, not just those designated as mandated reporters. While mandated reporters have a legal obligation to report suspected child abuse or neglect, every adult has a moral and ethical duty to intervene when they suspect a child is in danger. This responsibility stems from the societal need to ensure the safety and well-being of children, who are often unable to protect themselves.

Moreover, even if someone is not a mandated reporter, they may still have relevant information or observations about a child’s situation that could warrant action or reporting to authorities. The expectation is that adults will act in the best interest of children, thus contributing to their protection and welfare.