Forensic interview what have we learned

1. Forensic interviewwhat have we learned Ólöf Ásta Farestveit Leader of Barnahus Iceland Forensic interviewer Haag 3rd October 2017

2. 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

3. 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

4. Forensic interview • Evidence based protocol (NICHD / NCAC) • Non-judgemental • Truth seeking • Neutral in tone • Accurate, credible, complete information • Precise documentation • DVD recording

5. 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

6. 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?

7. 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

8. 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

9. Thank you