What is it.
This study looked at the factors that delayed or facilitated disclosure of abuse within children’s forensic interviews at a CYAC in Turkey. This study looked at 403 cases of children under 18 referred to a CYAC for suspected abuse. The authors found that the presence of witnesses or evidence was the most common facilitator of disclosure. The most common reason for delay was threats from the alleged offender. Age was a factor in disclosure differences, with adolescents being more likely to delay disclosure than younger children. At the same time, adolescents were also more able to clearly identify factors that either facilitated or delayed disclosure.
How can it help me?
Understanding factors that facilitate or delay disclosure of abuse is critical for multidisciplinary team members as they work with children, youth, and their families through their investigative and treatment process. Understanding how disclosure dynamics differ for victims across age can support forensic interviewers and multidisciplinary team members to better prepare for, and work with, victims across ages.