Police Interviewers’ Perceptions of Child Credibility in Forensic Investigations

Abstract

During investigative interviews, police practice can influence key aspects of child credibility, namely the accuracy, competency, reliability, and truthfulness of their testimony. To date, police interviewers' perceptions of how best to assess child credibility at interview, and how practice impacts upon credibility, have been overlooked. We conducted a qualitative study that examined data from focus groups with 16 English police officers who regularly interview children. The focus group transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis, and four main themes were identifiedthe 4Es: eliciting information, evaluating credibility, empowering the interviewee, and a high-quality end product. Within these themes, police officers acknowledged some responsibility for the perceived credibility of child victims. Poor interviewing practice could decrease the accuracy of the information elicited and cross-examined in court. Registered intermediaries could empower child interviewees and increase their competency. A lack of reliability contributed to evaluating credibility, but this relationship was not straightforward. Finally, obtaining the most truthful account from child victims was not always possible, because there are many barriers to overcome. Our findings suggest the need for a continued focus on interview protocols that facilitate disclosure from child victims and a review of the professional relationship between those who interview children and prosecutors.

Stigma, epistemic injustice, and “looked after children”: The need for a new language

“…As Henry 27 notes, understanding the perspectives of one's fellow human beings involves a form of engagement fundamentally different from the kind of reasoning involved in solving scientific problems. However, a review of the literature in this area reveals that the competency and skills required to assess a child's credibility at interview, and how practice impacts upon credibility, have been overlooked 28 …”

“…However, a review of the literature in this area reveals that the competency and skills required to assess a child's credibility at interview, and how practice impacts upon credibility, have been overlooked. 28 Gallagher 29 has published research detailing the disturbing extent of institutional abuse. Among practitioners, policymakers, and members of the public, he identifies this as a focus of major concern.…”

“…However, a review of the literature in this area reveals that the competency and skills required to assess a child's credibility at interview, and how practice impacts upon credibility, have been overlooked. 28 …”

Türkiye’de Cinsel İstismar Mağduru Çocukla Yürütülen Adli Görüşmenin Güvenilirliği

“…For this reason, statements of victims are valuable; most of the time, there are also no witnesses or evidence of the abuse incident (Şamar 2018). Victim credibility can significantly affect the outcomes of cases involving allegations of child abuse (Cassidy et al 2020). In light of a report on a child victim, the prosecutor's office is launching an investigation in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Turkish Penal Code if there are any findings of abuse (Kök 2019).…”

“…In light of a report on a child victim, the prosecutor's office is launching an investigation in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Turkish Penal Code if there are any findings of abuse (Kök 2019). The practice of conducting police interviews with children can have an impact on the perceived credibility of the victim, which can lead to serious legal consequences (Cassidy et al 2020). Nowadays, in many parts of the world, professionals from various fields are specially trained in forensic interviewing which is carried out sensitively to the development of the child.…”