Working with avoidant children: a clinical challenge

Clinicians have become increasingly aware of the difficulty inherent in interviewing avoidant children for possible maltreatment. Evaluations of avoidant children in cases involving multiple risk factors for maltreatment are often the most complex. The dilemma lies in balancing forensic standards while ensuring that every effort is made to enable children to relate their experiences. It is incumbent upon the evaluator to be aware of the reasons children may resist sharing their experiences. Initial stages of the interview process are discussed, including techniques for dealing with avoidant children.