Dolls, Diagrams and Drawings: Interviewers’ Perspectives on Visual Aids in Child Witness Interviews
Date
2017
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Publisher
Victoria University of Wellington
Abstract
In cases of child maltreatment child witnesses are often the sole sources of information about
the suspected events, meaning their contribution to an investigation is critical. However,
children may find recounting their experiences in sufficient detail challenging (Poole &
Bruck, 2012). Visual aids are the tools (e.g. diagrams, drawings, and dolls) forensic
interviewers often use in interviews to help children remember or describe their experiences
and overcome children’s social and cognitive limitations. Research evaluating these aids
indicates that any gains in information, reported by children, are typically accompanied by
significant increases in false details, thus compromising the accuracy of accounts (Brown,
2011). The purpose of this study was to establish the extent to which interviewers in New
Zealand use visual aids with children, and their knowledge of relevant research and the
national interviewing protocol. Thirty-one New Zealand Specialist Child Witness
Interviewers completed a questionnaire that assessed how and why they use aids, and their
knowledge of, and adherence to, the literature and protocols guiding interviewer practice with
visual aids. Interviewers’ responses indicated they used a range of aids, with both younger
and older children, for a range of reasons, many of which have not been extensively
researched. Generally, interviewers had poor knowledge of the existing research and protocol
guidelines, and knowledge did not predict adherence to the recommendations. The findings
identify the need to educate interviewers about the evidence-base surrounding various aids, as
well as conducting research that more closely reflects how aids are used with children.
Description
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Keywords
forensic interview, child witness, media, visual aids, research
Citation
Hill, A. (2017). Dolls, Diagrams and Drawings: Interviewers’ Perspectives on Visual Aids in Child Witness Interviews. Australia: Victoria University of Wellington 149 p.