1. Forensic interview what have we learned
Ólöf Ásta Farestveit
Leader of Barnahus Iceland
Forensic interviewer
Haag 3rd October 2017

2. Barnahus – child friendly environment
Location in a residential area
Doesn´t look like institution
Hidden address
Give the child a juice
minimize anxiety
Age appropriate waiting rooms

3. The interview room Specially designed Child friendly setting
Neutral/Safe
Camera
No distractions
Age and developmentally appropriate
Information about all present
Everyone can ask questions through the questioner

4. Forensic interview Evidence based protocol (NICHD / NCAC)
Non-judgemental
Truth seeking
Neutral in tone
Accurate, credible, complete information
Precise documentation
DVD recording

5. The goals of the interview
Maximize information from he child
Minimize the impact of the interview on the child
Minimize contamination effects on the child´s memory
Maintain integrity

6. Timing Is the child tired?
What time does the child take medication, if any?
Has the child eaten?
Is the child missing fun activities?
Does the child need to use the restroom?

7. The interviewer Educated in child´s development Read child´s behavior
Child´s form of expression
Read body language
Knowledge in children's disabilities
Use your body language to show your interest
Knowing when child is feeling bad – lower the pressure and come back later
Not to harm the child with unsuitable questions

8. Lessons learned after 19 years
Takes time to proof the method
Not everyone can be good interviewers
MD team meeting before the interview
Educate the Judges about the protocol
Get experience as interviewer and be relaxed
Let disabled children look at the location and rooms day before
Protocol is suitable for disabled children
Meeting with the disabled child´s developmental therapist
Inform interpreter about the protocol

9. Thank you