What is it. This webinar examines how interview monitors can strengthen the quality of child forensic interviews. Dr. Cassidy Biener and Dr. Heather Price share new research that clarifies the monitor’s role and why it is essential to both interview quality and the child’s experience. They outline strategies for strengthening the partnership between interviewers and…
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…
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…
What is it. Trauma-informed practice is essential for promoting healing and minimizing re-traumatization. In Canada, changes to the Criminal Code, Canada Evidence Act, and Victims Bill of Rights aim to better support children and youth involved in the criminal justice system. However, significant gaps remain in how these practices are implemented, particularly by legal actors…
What is it. This webinar explores the role of facility dogs in CYACs and how they can provide emotional support to children and youth. Facility dogs are specially trained to offer comfort, assist with emotional regulation, and help create a sense of security. This can be especially useful during high-stress situations such as forensic interviews…
What is it. This study is a large-scale meta-analysis examining reoffending rates among adults who have committed child sexual abuse material offences. Drawing on 30 international samples, totalling nearly 26,000 individuals, it provides the most up-to-date and comprehensive estimates of reoffending in this population. The study was conducted to clarify ongoing concerns about whether individuals who commit child sexual abuse material offences are likely…
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…
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…
What is it. Many cases at CYACs involve harm that is initiated by children, including problematic sexual behaviour. Treatment for problematic sexual behaviour has shifted towards using developmental approaches that recognize childhood experiences contributing to these behaviours and the importance of involving their family. This study explores the characteristics of children and their families referred for problematic sexual behaviour treatment at a Canadian CYAC and their treatment…
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…