Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What should be the approach taken if a child exhibits signs of not feeling safe during an interview?

1. Insist they answer questions immediately

2. Continue the interview regardless

3. End the interview and reassess the atmosphere

4. Change the interviewer's behavior drastically

The correct answer is: End the interview and reassess the atmosphere

Ending the interview and reassessing the atmosphere is the appropriate approach when a child exhibits signs of not feeling safe. This sensitivity to the child's comfort level is crucial in establishing a trusting environment, which is particularly important during interviews regarding potentially traumatic experiences. By reassessing the atmosphere, the interviewer can take the time to understand what may be causing the child's discomfort, whether it be the interview setting, the interviewer's demeanor, or the nature of the questions being asked. Adjusting the approach can lead to a more effective interview later, where the child may feel more secure and willing to share. This method aligns with trauma-informed practices, which prioritize the well-being and emotional safety of the interviewee, especially in cases involving children. Other approaches, such as insisting on immediate answers, continuing the interview regardless of the child's discomfort, or drastically changing the interviewer's behavior, can exacerbate the child's feelings of anxiety or unease, potentially shutting down communication or damaging the rapport established. Instead, prioritizing the child's feelings fosters a more supportive and conducive environment for them to express themselves freely.