In what manner are interviews at Child Advocacy Centers meant to be conducted?

Interviews at Child Advocacy Centers are designed to be conducted in a non-leading manner to ensure that the child can provide their account of events freely and without influence. This approach is critical in maintaining the integrity of the information gathered, as leading questions can confuse young children or direct their responses in a way that may not reflect their true experiences. By allowing children to express themselves in their own words, interviewers can obtain more accurate and reliable information, which is essential for both the investigation process and the child's well-being. This method also helps in creating a safe and supportive environment for the child, encouraging them to be open and honest during the interview.