NCJ Number
231010
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 79 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2010 Pages: 16-19
Date Published
May 2010
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses special interview dynamics for interviewing compliant adolescent victims.
Abstract
Results show that investigators must conduct forensic interviews in a developmentally sensitive, unbiased manner that will support decisions made in the criminal justice and child welfares systems by testing rather than confirming hypotheses. Investigators who interview compliant adolescent victims must follow guidelines established for the appropriate State, country, or agency. To avoid possible negative consequences, interviewers should receive training in forensic interviewing and use a trained forensic interviewer, multidisciplinary teams, or such resources as child advocacy centers. Certain mental-health issues should be addressed post interview so appropriate services can be offered to the victims and their families. Interviewers should learn about State and Federal statutes regarding victim's rights and child protection issues, and they must provide a defensible forensic interview for the adolescent victim. 13 endnotes