What is it. This panel explored medical evaluation and treatment within the CYAC context. Panelists specializing in child abuse pediatrics shared how this guideline has been implemented in CYACs across Canada. They addressed key considerations behind medical examinations in CYACs, and discussed strategies for equitable access to child abuse medical services. The conversation offered insights…
What is it. This discussion paper describes the development of Kindex (formally, Canadian Child and Youth Advocacy Research and Knowledge Centre), a community-academic partnership to support and further the evidence-base around child abuse and CYAC practices. This discussion paper explores the need for a multidisciplinary response to child abuse and the benefit of such a…
What is it. This study examined sibling sexual abuse within children receiving therapeutic services at a CYAC. Researchers aimed to better understand the sociodemographic characteristics, abuse patterns, trauma symptoms, and protective factors of children who experienced sibling sexual abuse compared to those who experienced abuse by a parent/step-parent or non-family member. Sibling sexual abuse is a common yet overlooked and poorly understood form of child sexual abuse. By distinguishing sibling sexual abuse from other forms…
What is it. This practice brief focuses on the use of shared mental models to facilitate multidisciplinary team (MDT) functioning at CYACs. A shared mental model is where individual members of a team all have a common structure and shared understanding of the topic or ways of working. This practice brief highlights three areas of opportunities…
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…
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…
What is it. Forensic interviewing with children is complex and requires specialized knowledge. Interviewers often struggle to follow best practices due to limited training, and lack of feedback. Addressing these barriers is essential to maintain the integrity of the interview and protect the well-being of the child. This study examined the quality and structure of peer feedback and whether training…
What is it. Forensic interviewing is a process in which a trained interviewer gathers information from a victim, witness, or person of interest in relation to a crime. The goal is to collect sufficient information and evidence for a successful prosecution while simultaneously protecting the child and/or youth’s psychological and emotional safety by avoiding re-traumatization.…
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…