When interviewing a child, what is the most important consideration?

When interviewing a child, the most critical consideration is avoiding leading or suggestive answers. This approach ensures that the child's responses are as accurate and untainted as possible. Children are particularly susceptible to influence and suggestion, and their memories can be easily shaped by the way questions are framed. By not leading them towards a particular answer, the interviewer allows the child to express their thoughts and experiences freely, which leads to more reliable information.

Maintaining a neutral and open-ended questioning format fosters a safe environment for the child, encouraging them to respond based on their recall rather than conforming to what they believe the interviewer wants to hear. This is essential in investigative contexts, such as interviews related to abuse or trauma, where the integrity of the child's account is paramount.

Other strategies, such as using straightforward questions, can be beneficial, but the fundamental principle of avoiding any form of suggestiveness is the foundation for obtaining truthful and genuine information from a child during an interview.