Difficult Cases in the Assessment of Child Abuse

Abstract

The assessment of child abuse allegations is very difficult and complex. However, due to many confounding factors, the assessment of abuse allegations sometimes becomes more difficult. Young children, children with special needs, children caught in the middle of parental disagreements, children who withdraw their statements, children who are victims of domestic abuse are some of these cases. Experts should consider all possibilities when evaluating allegations of abuse and carefully examine each case. Conducting the evaluation process by multidisciplinary teams within the framework of certain rules can reduce the complexity of these cases, increase appropriate decision-making and protect the best interests of children. With this article, it is planned to examine the difficult cases encountered in the evaluation of child abuse allegations.