Citation

Whitcomb D. J. Trauma. Stress 2003; 16(2): 149-157.

Affiliation

American Prosecutors Research Institute, 99 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 510, Alexandria, Virginia 22314, USA. debra.whitcomb@ndaa-apri.org

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1023/A:1022895106297

PMID

12699202

Abstract

Many commentators have expressed concern over the plight of children in the nation's court system, fearing that child victim/witnesses might suffer significant trauma. In efforts to alleviate this presumed trauma, new laws were passed and traditional procedures were modified. This paper synthesizes available research addressing 2 questions pertaining to the mental health needs of child victims: (1) To what extent are children traumatized by their involvement in the justice system, and (2) What interventions are effective in reducing children's trauma? The review concludes that most children can testify without suffering long-term adverse effects. It also identifies elements of the justice system that appear to heighten stress for children. Finally, it suggests several strategies that might be effective in alleviating that stress.

Language: en