Forensic interview what have we learned Ólöf Ásta

Forensic interview what have we learned Ólöf Ásta Farestveit Leader of Barnahus Iceland Forensic interviewer Haag 3 rd October 2017 Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

Barnahus – child friendly environment • Location in a residential area • Doesn´t look like institution • Hidden address • Give the child a juice • minimize anxiety • Age appropriate waiting rooms Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

The interview room • • • Specially designed Child friendly setting Neutral/Safe Camera No distractions Age and developmentally appropriate • Information about all present • Everyone can ask questions through the questioner Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

Forensic interview • • • Evidence based protocol (NICHD / NCAC) Non-judgemental Truth seeking Neutral in tone Accurate, credible, complete information Precise documentation – DVD recording Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

The goals of the interview • Maximize information from he child • Minimize the impact of the interview on the child • Minimize contamination effects on the child´s memory • Maintain integrity Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

Timing • • • Is the child tired? What time does the child take medication, if any? Has the child eaten? Is the child missing fun activities? Does the child need to use the restroom? Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

The interviewer • • • Educated in child´s development Read child´s behavior Child´s form of expression Read body language Knowledge in children's disabilities Use your body language to show your interest • Knowing when child is feeling bad – lower the pressure and come back later • Not to harm the child with unsuitable questions Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

Lessons learned after 19 years • Takes time to proof the method • Not everyone can be good interviewers • MD team meeting before the interview • Educate the Judges about the protocol • Get experience as interviewer and be relaxed • Let disabled children look at the location and rooms day before • Protocol is suitable for disabled children • Meeting with the disabled child´s developmental therapist • Inform interpreter about the protocol Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is

Thank you Barnahús – The Children´s House · www. bvs. is