NCJ Number
180251
Date Published
1999
Length
57 pages
Annotation
This British report summarizes the findings of recent research on children as witnesses and draws implications for the conduct of child interviews under the "Memorandum of Good Practice on Video Recorded Interviews With Child Witnesses for Criminal Proceedings" (Home Office/Department of Health, 1992).
Abstract
Most of the research reviewed in this report has been conducted or published since the "Memorandum" was drafted. The review focuses on the practical relevance that studies in psychology, social work, and policing have for investigative interviewing. A section on child development reviews research on children's developing competence. Topics covered include the vulnerabilities of very young witnesses, the value of prompt interviewing, ways of reducing the possibility that children will go along with suggestive questions, and the importance of accommodating to the child's language and level of understanding. A section on planning the interview discusses differences in the way children disclose abuse; proper preparation of the child for the interview; tailoring the interview to take into account factors such as the child's age, state of mind and level of anxiety, physical or learning impairments, and race and culture; and the influence of the interviewer. Another section of the paper reviews research and practice in conducting "Memorandum" interviews. This section identifies areas where further guidance is needed beyond that provided in the "Memorandum." The paper also reviews the literature on child witness preparation programs and the long-term effects on children of appearing in court. The final section reviews the main themes of the report and offers recommendations for any future revision of the "Memorandum." 176 references