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COMMUNITY READINESS FOR AN EXTENDED FORENSIC INTERVIEW MODEL

Presenters: Linda Cordisco Steele

Abstract Category: 

Instruction Level: Intermediate

Presentation: Click Here

Description:

Multi-disciplinary Teams often recognize that the one interview model provides an insurmountable challenge for some vulnerable children.  At the same time, many of those same teams have embraced the one-interview model.  This workshop offers strategies for assessing community readiness and educating system players about extended interview models.

Abstract:

Many communities have adopted a multi-disciplinary approach to the investigation of child abuse, which include protocols to set guidelines and standards for the interviewing of child victims and witnesses.  Prevailing practice recommends a single forensic interview conducted by a trained child interview with investigators able to observe and participate in the process.  However, MDTs recognize that the one interview model provides an insurmountable challenge for some vulnerable children.  The National Children’s Advocacy center has developed an extended forensic interview protocol which can be effective with young or traumatized children.  This model is research based.

However, practice does not change easily.  There are resource issues, scheduling concerns, community readiness for procedural changes and educational issues; in addition to the challenge of adopting a model that is forensically appropriate and defensible.  This training will address some of the issues that communities face, as well as providing practical suggestions for community education and preparation.