Forensic child abuse evaluation: a review

Area of Science:

• Forensic Medicine
• Child Psychology
• Pediatric Healthcare

Background:

• Child abuse, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect, necessitates specialized forensic evaluations.
• Assessing child victims requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the child's well-being and minimizes further trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review forensic medical and psychological assessments for children and adolescents suspected of abuse or neglect.
• To emphasize the importance of evaluating the 'whole child' and minimizing trauma during investigations.
• To highlight key components of forensic medical examinations, particularly in sexual assault cases, and the forensic interview process.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and best practices in forensic medical and psychological assessments for child abuse.
• Detailed examination of the pediatric anogenital examination protocols.
• Analysis of the critical elements of forensic interviews in child sexual abuse investigations.

Main Results:

• Forensic evaluations must be holistic, considering the entire child's medical and psychological state.
• Trauma-informed approaches are crucial throughout the investigative and assessment processes.
• Specific guidelines for pediatric anogenital examinations and forensic interviews are essential for evidence integrity.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive, trauma-informed forensic evaluations are vital for child abuse victims.
• Standardized protocols for medical examinations and interviews enhance evidence quality.
• Further research is needed to refine forensic assessment techniques and address gaps in current knowledge.