What is it. This study investigates whether the presence of facility dogs during forensic interviews with children influences the quality of the interviews—specifically, whether children provide more detailed accounts of alleged abuse and whether interviewers maintain adherence to non-suggestive questioning protocols. The findings suggest that while facility dogs may help reduce stress and provide emotional…
What is it. A child’s statement is often the most critical evidence during investigations. Interviewers rely on monitors to help track details, identify gaps, and support adherence to best practice interviewing. This study examines the role of interview monitors in child forensic interviews through interviews with 13 police and social worker interviewers/monitors. It explored how the role is understood and what practices best support high-quality…
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…
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…
What is it. This article examined the experiences of young people disclosing sexual abuse to law enforcement and the impact of the justice system. Youth were recruited from Canada and Ireland through community-based sexual abuse/assault agencies, specialized clinics, and CYACs to discuss their disclosure experiences. The authors relied on the voices of young people to…
What is it. Professionals recognize that the criminal legal process can be harmful for child and youth victims. However, it is important to know how children and youth experience the legal process to develop responsive supports and processes to reduce harm. This literature review summarizes what is known about children and youth’s experiences with the legal process for child sexual abuse cases. The authors identified four themes on what children and youth need to safely participate in the legal process: to be protected, to be…
What is it. This article responds to pressing, systemic issues in how sexual violence is handled in the Canadian criminal justice system. The authors outline persistent issues in sexual violence and justice such as underreporting, low conviction rates, and high rates of “unfounded” cases. Despite legal reforms and increased awareness, many victims still face skepticism…