Improving Interviews with Children in Abuse Cases: Current Perspectives from Police and Forensic Interviewers

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychology
• Child Development Studies
• Criminal Justice

Background:

• Investigative interviewers are vital for gathering information from children.
• Understanding professional experiences is key to improving child investigative interviews.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the perspectives of police officers and forensic interviewers on child investigative interviews.
• To identify challenges, effective strategies, and techniques in child interviews.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 police officers and forensic interviewers in the UK and US.
• Thematic analysis was employed to analyze interview data.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: challenges/limitations, strategies for enhancement, and effective information gathering techniques.
• Professionals highlighted issues such as inflexibility, technology gaps, and third-party disruptions.
• Recommendations included improved training, child-adapted environments, rapport-building, and supportive cues.

Conclusions:

• Findings offer updated insights from frontline professionals on child investigative interviews.
• The study proposes hypotheses for assessing interview techniques and updating guidelines.
• Enhanced interview practices can improve child protection and the pursuit of justice.