Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

What is the primary focus of child advocacy in cases of abuse?

1. Judicial actions

2. Family counseling

3. Protection of the child

4. Public awareness campaigns

The correct answer is: Protection of the child

The primary focus of child advocacy in cases of abuse is the protection of the child. This emphasis is crucial because when a child is subjected to abuse, the immediate and overarching goal is to ensure their safety and well-being. Advocates work tirelessly to intervene in situations where a child's safety is compromised, which may involve collaborating with law enforcement, child protective services, and healthcare providers to remove the child from harmful environments and provide them with necessary support and care. Additionally, protecting the child encompasses not only immediate physical safety but also emotional and psychological well-being. It involves ensuring that the child receives proper mental health support, is placed in a secure environment, and can begin healing from the trauma of abuse. While aspects such as judicial actions and public awareness campaigns are important components of the broader child advocacy movement, they serve to support the central mission of child protection, rather than replace it. The focus on the child’s protection is what drives policies, interventions, and the work of various professionals in the field.