Intended Audience

This module is intended for any professional who may become involved in the intervention of child abuse or to whom a child may disclose abuse.

Purpose

Recantation is prevalent in child sexual abuse cases, especially when the abuser is someone close to the family or from within the home. This session will provide research-based information focusing on identifying risk factors and ways to potentially prevent recantation. In addition, practical steps for the MDT to take in the event recantation does occur will be explored, including decision making regarding the need for and how to conduct a forensic interview of the recanting child.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Determine how the dynamics of abuse and process of disclosure relate to recantation.
• Identify risk factors for recantation as recognized in research.
• Determine steps the MDT/CAC can take to reduce the risk for recantation.
• Identify steps the MDT/CAC can take to address recantation when it does occur.
• Determine tips for conducting a recantation interview.