Understand and Interpret Children's Data (W10) CD

Workshop

This program is designed to follow the minor's counsel plenary and will provide a closer look at the complications of eliciting, understanding and correctly interpreting children's dialogue. Our interdisciplinary panel will discuss a variety of issues and experiences that can impact children's statements, ranging from external influences to the child's own moods and developmental issues. Professionals must be alert to contaminating influences and other issues that may provide context to the child's initial statements, or to the child's conflicting feelings. We will also focus on the appropriate use of psychological research and professional information, including: (1) appropriate application of psychological research; (2) critical evaluation of interviews; (3) appropriate use of mental health expertise; (4), the complex, difficult or contaminated interview; and (5) recognizing when a limited or narrowly focused interview is unlikely to aid an accurate understanding of the child. The delicacies of weighing children's direct answers against conflicting evidence will also be discussed.