Investigative interviewing of children is a specialized skill that requires a careful and sensitive approach. Here are some key points and best practices:
Key Points and Best Practices
- Building Rapport: Establishing a comfortable and trusting environment is crucial. Interviewers should use age-appropriate language and be patient.
- Structured Protocols: Using structured protocols, such as the NICHD protocol, helps ensure consistency and reliability in the information gathered.
- Open-Ended Questions: Asking open-ended questions encourages children to provide more detailed and accurate information. Avoid leading or suggestive questions.
- Understanding Developmental Stages: Interviewers should be aware of the child’s developmental stage and tailor their approach accordingly.
- Use of Props and Tools: In some cases, tools like drawings or anatomically detailed dolls can help children express themselves more effectively.
- Training and Supervision: Continuous training and supervision for interviewers are essential to maintain high standards and adapt to new research findings.
Notable Protocols and Guidelines
- NICHD Protocol: Developed by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, this protocol is widely used and focuses on enhancing the accuracy and completeness of children’s testimonies.
- Barnahus Model: This model integrates investigative interviews with medical examinations and therapeutic services in a child-friendly environment.
These practices and protocols aim to ensure that the information obtained from children is as accurate and reliable as possible while minimizing the potential for additional trauma.
