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Child Eyewitness Testimony in Sexual Abuse Investigations

NCJ Number
157297
Author(s)
B E Mapes
Date Published
1995
Length
147 pages
Annotation
The forensic investigation of child sexual abuse is discussed with respect to the application of current research from different fields that can guide interviews and assessments of child victims.
Abstract
The text begins with an overview of the informational needs of child welfare agencies and the courts, the scope of the forensic assessment, and the standards and guidelines governing forensic investigations. Additional chapters explain major developmental changes in memory, the reconstructive nature of memory, the ways in which the forensic investigation may affect the child's allegations, environmental influences on children's allegations and memories, and major controversies concerning children's memories of sexual abuse. Further chapters discuss the nonleading-leading continuum of investigative techniques; the basic knowledge, competencies, and support systems the forensic investigator should have; environmental factors that must be considered in the formulation of appropriate interventions; and issues common to nearly all forensic investigations. The final chapters focus on the assessment of the credibility and validity of the child's allegations, a four-step decisionmaking process to assist the forensic investigator in decisionmaking, and issues needing further research. Tables, name and subject indexes, and approximately 150 references