Impacts on paediatricians testifying in cases of child maltreatment: protocol for a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Child Abuse Pediatrics
• Forensic Pediatrics
• Child Protection Services

Background:

• Pediatricians play a crucial role in assessing child maltreatment.
• They often interact with child protection agencies and law enforcement.
• Pediatricians may be required to provide expert testimony in legal proceedings related to child abuse cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize the existing literature on the impacts of testifying in child maltreatment cases on pediatricians.
• To identify gaps in the current evidence base.
• To inform best practices and support for pediatricians involved in the legal system.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search strategy was employed across six major electronic databases (Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Criminal Justice Abstracts, Cochrane Library) from inception to May 2023.
• Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles based on predefined eligibility criteria.
• A third reviewer resolved any disagreements between the initial two reviewers.

Main Results:

• The review aims to synthesize evidence on the professional, psychological, and ethical impacts experienced by pediatricians when testifying in child maltreatment cases.
• Findings will highlight the current state of research and identify areas needing further investigation.
• The synthesis will provide a foundation for developing supportive resources and guidelines.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impacts on pediatricians who testify in child maltreatment cases.
• This systematic review will provide critical insights into the challenges and consequences faced by these medical professionals.
• The findings will contribute to improved support systems and professional development for pediatricians engaged in child protection and legal matters.