NCJ Number
251273
Date Published
2012
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This guide instructs judges, jurors, and court personnel about the adverse effects that can result when those involved in presenting, viewing, and deliberating on cases that involve child pornography must view images of child sexual abuse; and suggestions are offered for addressing these adverse effects.
Abstract
The guide notes that child pornography cases can involve crime-scene photos or films of children being sexually abused, exploited, and even tortured. The success of the federal Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) taskforces has resulted in more prosecutions of such cases, consequently exposing more court personnel to this disturbing material. This guide outlines common adverse physical, mental/emotional, and behavioral symptoms that can result from exposure to such shocking images. Some effective strategies for coping with these symptoms are also described. One section of the guide addresses special considerations for judges, with attention to measures that can assist judges in coping with the potentially adverse impact of child pornography cases. Communication with family and friends receives special attention for a judge's social support. Using a mental health professional is also discussed as an important resource. Another section of the guide addresses preparation for jurors in child sexual abuse cases, since research suggests that up to one-third of jurors experience some form of stress from exposure to distressing images, hearing horrific testimony, and being under oath not to talk about the cases. Several jurisdictions are working to develop juror support programs. One of these (Travis County, Texas) is described. Training resources on these issues are described, notably the training program entitled Supporting Heroes in mental health Foundation Training (SHIFT). Appended supplementary material