Best practices in forensic interviewing: Agreement amongst multiple models

This presentation will discuss the evolution of forensic interviewing of children regarding allegations of child abuse and neglect, emerging research and how experts in the field, representing many of the leading Forensic... [ view full abstract ]

This presentation will discuss the evolution of forensic interviewing of children regarding allegations of child abuse and neglect, emerging research and how experts in the field, representing many of the leading Forensic Interview training programs in the U.S., came together with the intent of identifying the common agreement and understanding of best practices in forensic interviewing. This collaborative effort led to the publication of a freely available article which will be shared with attendees and also highlight the areas of continuing dialogue and perspectives demonstrating that among these leading training programs, there is significant consistency in practice perspective. In addition, the highly research-supported article will be discussed which is intended to be a resource for use in court, as a criterion against which forensic interviews may be compared and to determine whether appropriate techniques were utilized. All individuals involved in the investigation of child abuse, especially those who conduct forensic interviews or defend them in court, will benefit from this newly published resource.

The objectives of this presentation are:
1. Describe the evolution of forensic interviewing of children
2. Highlight the process of engaging multiple forensic interviewing training programs to identify both research and practice informed best practices in the field
3. Provide the Best Practices in Forensic Interviewing article to participants
4. Identify the multiple uses of this document to enhance the protection of children

These objectives will be met through an oral presentation supported by a powerpoint and dissemination of the article by the lead author for this publication.