Reporting suspected child abuse to child protective services reflects which ethical principle for the dentist?

Correct answer: D. Beneficence

• A. Autonomy is the patient's right to self-determination — not the principle driving mandatory reporting.
• B. Veracity refers to truthfulness and honesty in communication.
• C. Non-maleficence means 'do no harm' — while related, the positive action of reporting reflects beneficence more than harm avoidance.
• D. Correct. Reporting child abuse demonstrates BENEFICENCE — actively doing good by protecting the child from harm. By reporting suspected abuse, the dentist acts in the child's best interest and contributes to their safety and well-being. Mandatory reporting laws institutionalize this ethical obligation.