What does the term 'discovery' mean for mandated reporters?

The term 'discovery' for mandated reporters refers to the specific finding or witnessing of an abusive act. This means that the reporter has not only a suspicion or belief about the occurrence of abuse but has actually observed an incident first-hand or has clear evidence that an abusive act has taken place. This level of clarity is crucial because it informs the obligation of the mandated reporter to take appropriate action, which includes making a report to the appropriate authorities. The concept emphasizes the importance of direct observation or credible evidence in the reporting process, as mandated reporters must often distinguish between mere allegations and verified instances of abuse.

In the context given, other choices do not convey the same level of certainty that comes with 'discovery.' General information alone might not be sufficient to initiate reporting, a suspicion without clear evidence does not meet the threshold for mandatory reporting, and reports from third parties add an additional layer of separation that does not align with the direct observation inherent in 'discovery.'