Evaluering van forensiese assesseringstegnieke tydens onderhoudsvoering van die seksueel misbruikte kind

Abstract

Forensic assessment techniques utilized during child sexual abuse investigations have evolved greatly through the years. Research has provided valuable information regarding effective and appropriate assessment techniques. However, more research is needed to further explore these techniques. The forensic interviewer can benefit considerably from the guidance provided by research. Based on the above, the researcher investigated the forensic assessment techniques currently utilized by forensic social workers in practice. During the research, several techniques utilized during forensic assessment interviews were identified and discussed. The Touch Survey was selected by the researcher for the aim of this study. This technique was studied and discussed by means of a case study. The researcher also investigated the opinions of social workers working in the forensic field regarding the Touch Survey, as well as the opinions of Judicial Officials, amongst others magistrates and state prosecutors working in the sexual offence courts. Initially, the Judicial Officials were not familiar with the technique, but after literature had been made available to them to study it, it was established that they are receptive to and positive about the mentioned forensic assessment technique. The aim of the investigation was: * To identify and discuss the forensic assessment techniques currently used in practice, by means of a literature study; and * To evaluate the Touch Survey technique based on a literature study and empirical research. In conclusion, it can be said that the techniques as discussed in this research should form part of the professional person’s protocol when assessing the sexually abused child. This research has proved that the Touch Survey can be used with great value as a forensic assessment technique regarding the sexually abused child.