ABSTRACT
Child witnesses who are interviewed as part of investigations into abuse and neglect may be reluctant to disclose to interviewers due to a range of motivational factors (e.g., fear, shame, embarrassment). Techniques designed for interviewing cooperative witnesses may have limited effectiveness in the face of these powerful motivational barriers. This chapter reviews a number interviewing techniques designed to overcome children’s reluctance to disclose abuse. These techniques include the use of anatomical dolls and diagrams, presenting evidence to witnesses, extended forensic interviewing, social support, and approaches designed to promote honesty.
