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Abstract: 

Abuse investigation is challenging. It requires extensive training and experience, quality supervision, considerable time, dedication, good judgment, and significant skill. Numerous challenges confront investigators, such as difficulty gaining access to suspected victims and needed data, lack of cooperation from those blocking access, and victims unable to describe abuse due to disabilities or duress. Systems charged with the responsibility to investigate alleged abuse and protect vulnerable victims tend to be plagued by inadequate budgets and resources. This frequently results in investigators working under difficult circumstances, including insufficient training and supervision, high caseloads, and inadequate time to devote to each case. In addition, little guidance on conducting abuse investigation appears in the professional literature. This column covers clinical aspects of abuse investigation. It offers an overview of the investigation process and discusses the components and principles of a well-organized, thorough, and fair investigation.

Keywords: observation of the victim and environment

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