Expert psychological testimony in cases of alleged child sexual abuse

Concurrent with the rapid rise in allegations of child sexual abuse, psychologists are increasingly assuming the role of experts for the courts. In this position, a new and more controversial role is often assumed by the expert, that of psychological investigator. A review of the common legal contexts for such a role as well as the theoretical and empirical basis for the investigatory role is presented. Ethical issues are also considered. A literature review reveals that many assessment instruments do not meet jurisprudential standards. Suggestions for improving the role of psychological experts in the courtroom include educating the legal audience regarding the limits of psychological testimony, providing standards for qualifications of experts, and emphasizing the data-based probabilistic nature of psychological expert testimony.