CJC-FRN7972 - Interdisciplinary Look at Child Abuse and Child Death

Course Description

This comprehensive training program is specifically tailored for first responders, investigators, and social workers who play a crucial role in addressing cases of child abuse and child deaths. This essential course equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to effectively respond to these heartbreaking situations with sensitivity, expertise, and a multidisciplinary approach.

Participants will gain a deep understanding of the dynamics of child abuse, the signs and symptoms of abuse, and the critical role they play in identifying and reporting suspected cases.  Attendees will learn about the behavioral patterns and red flags associated with perpetrators of child abuse, enabling them to recognize signs of potential offenders within their investigations.  They will also gain insights into the methods used to gather evidence, establish probably cause, and ensure the safety of child victims during the interview process.  

Through this course, participants will develop the skills necessary to conduct interviews with suspected offenders in a professional, evidence-based, and legally sound manner. They will learn effective questioning techniques, strategies for managing resistance and deception, and the importance of maintaining an objective and unbiased approach. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding the dynamics of power and control within these abusive relationships and the unique challenges faced when interviewing perpetrators. By honing these skills, first responders, investigators, and social workers will be better equipped to hold offenders accountable, uncover the truth, and protect children from further harm.

Course Outline

• Signs and symptoms of abuse and why they are critical in identifying and reporting cases
• Behavioral patterns and red flags associated with perpetrators of child abuse
• Recognize signs of potential offenders
• How to gather evidence for these cases
• Learn how to conduct interviews with suspected offenders in a professional and legally sound manner
• The dynamics of power and control within these abusive relationships and the challenges that are faced.
• How to interview child victims and ensure their safety during this process.
• How to establish trust and provide support to child victims and their families.

Learner Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to do the following:

• Recognize behavioral patterns and red flags of potential offenders
• Gain a better understanding of the signs and symptoms of abuse
• Utilize questioning techniques and strategies for managing resistance and deception when interviewing perpetrators
• Gather forensic evidence and navigate the legal complexities of these cases
• Conduct a trauma-informed interview with child victims

Notes

Method of instruction:

• Lecture
• PowerPoint
• Discussion

Evaluation:

• Student participation