This report presents an international review of the principles, best practices, and challenges involved in investigative interviews with child victims of crime, with the aim of informing efforts to strengthen the work of Israel’s Child Investigation Service. The study draws on a review of professional and academic literature from Western countries, alongside in-depth interviews with experts from Israel and abroad. The findings underscore that high-quality investigative interviews require careful adaptation to the child’s age, developmental stage, emotional state, and cultural background, as well as the consistent use of open-ended questions, gradual rapport building, and comprehensive documentation of the interview process. The report further recommends adopting a trauma-informed approach throughout all stages of the investigation, adapting protocols for diverse population groups, including children from Arab and ultra-Orthodox communities and adolescents, promoting the thoughtful integration of advanced technologies into training and oversight processes, examining the broader use of multiple-session interview models and supportive tools, and continuing to strengthen the professional, organizational, and research infrastructures that underpin the field.
Citing suggestion (APA):
Nijim-Ektelat, F., Sorek, Y., & Toporek Barr, O. (2026). Investigative interviews with child victims of crime: Principles, best practices, and challenges: An international review. RR-065-26. Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute.