Developing a Functional Code System to Analyze Forensic Interviews with Suspected Victims of Child Sexual Abuse

Abstract

This study aims to establish a coding system to analyze forensic interviews in order to systematically explore and understand “what works” for getting relevant information from child abuse victims. A forensic interview is a method of gathering information about allegations of sexual abuse from vulnerable children intended to further law enforcement and child protective investigations in a developmentally sensitive and legally sound manner (Cordisco-Steele, 2012; Newlin et al., 2015). Knowing what works in forensic interviews allows for better protection of children and families by improving interviewing techniques across the professional practice of helping children disclose information related to alleged victimization. The use of information from child interviews to address civil, protective, and criminal decisions varies among communities, whether international, national, or more local jurisdictions.