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Call for Field-Relevant Research about Child Forensic Interviewing for Child Protection

NCJ Number
239400
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Dated: January - February 2012 Pages: 109-129
Author(s)
Erna Olafson
Date Published
February 2012
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article examines protocol for interviewing sexually abused children.
Abstract
This article reviews some sensitivity versus specificity imbalances in forensic investigations of child sexual abuse. It then proposes the development or further testing of additional approaches for those children who do not respond to the current, single-interview National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) protocol. Although there are other interview protocols based on similar principles, the NICHD protocol has the strongest evidence base in both field and laboratory studies to elicit detailed and accurate information from children. Adaptations of the NICHD protocol or additional approaches need to be developed and tested for nondisclosing, partially disclosing, or recanting children, very young children, children with developmental disabilities, and children whose sexual abuse allegations are evaluated in the context of custody or visitation disputes. Published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.