False Reporting:
A Growing Problem

WINTER 2007: We are seeing a disturbing trend of youngsters making up stories about attempted abductions. All too often, newspaper headlines across the country read, "Student Claims Abduction to Skip School," "Teen recants abduction story," "Teen Makes up Abduction Story," and "Girl Admits Faking Abduction." While such false reports are certainly the exception, the chain of events they set off is far-reaching and can be profoundly damaging to the accused, the accuser, and the entire community.

Young people need to be aware of the serious ramifications of unnecessarily worrying parents, squandering the time and resources of community leaders who must investigate such claims, and putting an entire community on edge. These are serious actions that will be taken seriously by law enforcement and may result in criminal charges.

To prevent false reporting, the Think First & Stay Safe! School Program addresses this issue head-on. Its "Concept of Law" lesson plan teaches students, in K-2, Grades 3-6 and Grades 7-12 that falsely accusing someone of abduction, sexual abuse, or any other crime is a crime in itself – one that will be taken very seriously by law enforcement.

Age-appropriate lesson plans take this into consideration and carefully walk students through practice scenarios to help them understand, and avoid, false reporting – all the while still encouraging them to report abuse to trusted adults until someone can help them. The importance of always telling the truth is explained, practiced and reinforced.

With the recent prevalence of false reporting, teachers, counselors and school administrators are thankful that the Think First & Stay Safe! School Program addresses this issue in a straightforward manner.

Understanding the Concept of Law gives children the confidence to stand up to adults and peers who try to abuse them. It also presents itself as a unique opportunity to address false reporting and why it is never an option.