-
-
Children and the justice system in Canada: Developmental considersations for enhancing evidence
What is it. Child disclosure is the cornerstone of child abuse cases. This report outlines key development considerations for collecting evidence from children including executive functioning skills, language development, memory processes and impact of stress on memory, and how they shape the quality of a disclosure. It examines common challenges children face when providing evidence and identifies the unique role of CYACs to improving their experiences within the justice system. How can it help me? CYACs play…
-
Implementation evaluation of remote testimony
What is it. Testimonial aids can help reduce the trauma children and youth may experience through participating in the criminal legal process and enable them to provide a fulsome testimony. Remote testimony is when a child or youth provides video testimony at a site other than the courthouse. Child and Youth Advocacy Centres have started…
-
Remote testimony
What is it. This panel shared practical and legal insights to help CYACs plan and deliver remote testimony effectively. Remote testimony is when a child or youth provides their testimony virtually at a site other than the courthouse. Panelists discussed what CYACs need for a successful setup, such as reliable technology, private spaces, and clearly…
-
Questioning the expertise of “experts” who recommend active hypothesis testing in child forensic interviews
What is it. Despite advances in the field, the judicial system continues to accept testimony from experts who recommend practices that do not align with best practice protocols in forensic interviews. This article provides a summary of best practices and techniques in child forensic interviews. It spotlights the need to educate judges and prosecutors to…
-
Supporting families through trauma: An introduction to COPE
What is it. This webinar offers a comprehensive overview of the Caregiver Online Psychoeducation (COPE) resource. COPE is a free evidence-based digital tool designed for children, youth, and their families who have experienced trauma. Developed by researchers, clinicians, and caregivers, COPE offers immediate access to practical strategies that help families better understand and respond to…
-
Caregiver support and youth mental health after sexual abuse
What is it. This article examines the impact of caregiver support on the mental health of youth who had experienced sexual abuse and received services at a CYAC in the United States. Youth ages 11 to 17 and their caregivers completed surveys on mental health after a forensic interview. This article provides valuable insights for…
-
Department of Justice: Virtual testimony from child advocacy centres and child and youth advocacy centres
What is it. Virtual testimony allows children and youth to testify from a safe and child-friendly space instead of a courtroom. Although virtual testimony has been available for several decades, its use remains limited. This research article emphasizes the importance of virtual testimony as part of a trauma-informed approach when children and youth are required to…
-
Youth led conversation on consent messaging
What is it. This youth-led panel focuses on sexual consent for children and youth. Service providers have indicated an increase of peer-to-peer abuse and victimization, noting a need to understand the experiences of children and youth today. This panel was moderated and presented by youth across Canada, with a focus on how CYACs and professionals…
-
Child sexual abuse material
What is it. This panel topic was child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). This is a growing global concern. The panel reviews some relevant research on the topic of CSAM. Panelists discussed working with victims and families throughout the process, with specific discussions about forensic interviewing in CSAM cases. The panel explored practical concerns and strategies…
