In TDV policy, how is confidentiality typically handled when safety concerns are present?

• A. Privacy must never be breached under any circumstance.
• B. Privacy rules apply, but information may be shared when safety concerns or mandated reporting require it.
• C. Confidentiality is optional.
• D. All disclosures must be shared publicly.

Answer: (B)

Confidentiality in TDV policy means protecting a student’s private information, but it isn’t absolute. When safety concerns arise, information can be shared with the right people to prevent harm. Privacy rules guide how data is handled, yet they allow disclosure to appropriate parties if safety is at risk or if mandated reporting applies. This typically means sharing with designated school staff, counselors, and administrators, and, when required by law, with authorities such as child protective services or law enforcement. Disclosures should be limited to what is needed to assess and address the risk and follow the school’s procedures and legal requirements. After reporting, the student should be informed about what happened to the extent possible while keeping privacy protections in place. The core idea is that confidentiality is preserved when possible, but safety and legal duties override it when necessary.