One of the most difficult interviews faced by forensic psychology professional is the interview of a minor. The interview becomes much more difficult when the minor has suffered any form of abuse. There are many different forms of child abuse however; the basic definition of child abuse is when a parent or caregiver, whether through action or failing to act, causes injury, death, emotional harm, or risk of serious harm to a child (Children’s Bureau, 2016). Research shows that child abuse has risen over the years, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2012) reported approximately 3.4 million referrals of child abuse and /or neglect. Everyday there are more and more stories reported of child abuse and maltreatment, studies show that
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Neglect is referred to as a failure to provide a child’s basic needs. Physical abuse is described as a child being physically harmed causing any form of physical injury to the child. Sexual abuse is when sexual acts are performed with child such as rape, sexual exploitation, sexual fondling and more. Lastly, emotional abuse which seems to be the most prevalent form of abuse, is any behavior that damages or weakens a child’s confidence or sense of self-value. This includes but is not limited to harsh criticism, rejection, and condemnation (Children’s Bureau, 2016). Psychological effects connected to child abuse will differ between children based on age, gender, developmental factors, and the culture of the …show more content…
Gathering material from all proper sources is important in understanding and determining whether abuse actually occurred. Many times, reports of child abuse falsely accuse a suspect who is ultimately deemed innocent as children may not understand the abuse or may be coerced by another individual (Harris, 2011). Psychological tests are used to assess mental functioning, recognize possible psychological disorders or complications, or detect abuse risk factors. As noted in Bartol & Bartol (2015), “the forensic psychologist rarely acts alone or without the expertise of other mental health professionals” (p.389). The forensic psychologist will often need the expertise of other clinicians that are skilled with child development to help them better determine the best way to obtain the most accurate information from the
Neglect is referred to as a failure to provide a child’s basic needs. Physical abuse is described as a child being physically harmed causing any form of physical injury to the child. Sexual abuse is when sexual acts are performed with child such as rape, sexual exploitation, sexual fondling and more. Lastly, emotional abuse which seems to be the most prevalent form of abuse, is any behavior that damages or weakens a child’s confidence or sense of self-value. This includes but is not limited to harsh criticism, rejection, and condemnation (Children’s Bureau, 2016). Psychological effects connected to child abuse will differ between children based on age, gender, developmental factors, and the culture of the …show more content…
Gathering material from all proper sources is important in understanding and determining whether abuse actually occurred. Many times, reports of child abuse falsely accuse a suspect who is ultimately deemed innocent as children may not understand the abuse or may be coerced by another individual (Harris, 2011). Psychological tests are used to assess mental functioning, recognize possible psychological disorders or complications, or detect abuse risk factors. As noted in Bartol & Bartol (2015), “the forensic psychologist rarely acts alone or without the expertise of other mental health professionals” (p.389). The forensic psychologist will often need the expertise of other clinicians that are skilled with child development to help them better determine the best way to obtain the most accurate information from the