As technology becomes more and more integrated in our everyday lives, it presents a unique and often dangerous set up for adolescents. The opportunity for interactions with people across the world is at their fingertips, frequently leading to “relationships” being built between the adolescent and strangers. Through grooming behaviors, these adults are often able to coax the adolescent into a false sense of security. Often, investigations are opened when second-hand information is discovered as opposed to a direct disclosure made by the adolescent. This presents complexities in both forensic interviews as well as when conducting Child Protection and Law Enforcement investigations. This workshop will begin by providing foundational information on factors that can influence adolescents’ decision-making skills and increase their vulnerability. Participants will explore potential barriers with these unique cases. Then, participants will learn practical, proven strategies, based on experience and research to overcome these barriers in both forensic interviews as well as the investigation.
Learning Objectives:
Understand factors that can influence adolescents’ decision-making skills and increase their vulnerability
Gain the knowledge to critically think about potential barriers as they emerge at the beginning, middle and conclusion of investigations
Be able to incorporate practical strategies to overcome potential barriers in both the investigation as a whole and within the forensic interview
