The Child Advocacy Center, Inc.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The Forensic Interview

A child's disclosure of abuse may be one of the most significant pieces of evidence in a child abuse investigation. Most perpetrators deny abusing their victim and since most crimes committed with children are not witnessed, prosecution can be difficult. This is particularly true in suspected sexual abuse cases because most children do not have any physical signs they were abused.

Interview Room

The pain of child abuse doesn’t always end after the physical act.  In the past, a “verbal battery” began when young victims were questioned many times by several people who were simply trying to “protect” children.  Although the professionals had a job to perform and had the best intent, child victims were required to tell their experience(s) over and over. 

Adolescent Interview Room

Obtaining reliable and accurate details of the abuse event(s) and determining if any crime has occurred can be a difficult process.  At the CAC, three professionally trained interviewers (who have experience and skills in child development, child abuse issues and linguistics) conduct objective interviews that bear scrutiny from outside agencies and also serve the best interests of child victims.  The child’s age, developmental level, and emotional state on the date of their appointment may influence what information can be obtained during the interview.  

Observation Room for Multidisciplinary Team Members

Benefits of a Forensic Interview

Provides a child friendly environment in which to conduct the interview

Decreases stress on child victim and family

Interviews are a neutral, non-leading account in child's own words

Reduces the number of redundant interviews

At The Child Advocacy Center, Inc., the MDT members involved in the investigation may observe the interview and provide immediate input regarding the questions they would like the interviewer to ask the child.  This procedure decreases the number of professionals interviewing the child. Digitially recording interviews provides a permanent record of exactly what questions were asked and how the child answered. It records, in the child's own words, what occurred.

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If you suspect child abuse or neglect call:
1-800-392-3738

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