NCJ Number
129967
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 39 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1991) Pages: 90-94
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Based on the experiences of the Union County (New Jersey) Child Abuse Investigations Team, a list of suggestions for interviewing abused children is provided.
Abstract
The first technique is to interview the child in a comfortable setting, limiting the number of people in the room. Officers will also have to confront the often complex emotions of the parents and help them to assist their children through this trauma. The age of the child must be considered in preparing for the interview. Other factors that may impact on the interview include a child's limited vocabulary, withdrawal, and fears. Questions must be posed delicately in order to overcome the barrier of secrecy that often accompanies child sexual abuse. Interviewing officers must be able to establish a child's credibility and the validity of the information provided. A case file should include documentation of each interview, using the child's own words in written reports and keeping videotape and audio tapes. Other steps in the investigation include interviewing other witnesses and the parents; collecting records from hospitals, physicians, and social workers; and confronting the suspect. 4 references