Abstract
The content of an investigatory interview is one of several factors which may influence the data gathered in the course of a sexual abuse investigation. This article focuses on the impact of an interviewer's behaviors upon the information presented by the alleged victim. Behavioral aspects of the interview which may influence the child's information include inappropriate interactional patterns, emotional reactions of the interviewer, and/or changes in continuity of specific behaviors. Recommendations are made to assist investigators in avoiding these interviewing pitfalls and, thereby, minimizing contamination of the child's data.
Footnotes
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Dr. Quinn is assistant professor, Department of Psychiatry. Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Dr. White is assistant professor of psychology. Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Both are on the staff at Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital. Ms. Santilli is in the Department of Social Service, Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital and is adjunct instructor at Smith College, School for Social Work. Address reprint requests to Dr. Quinn at Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital, Child Psychiatry, 3395 Scranton Road, Cleveland, OH 44109.
- Copyright © 1989, The American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
