A Case Study Perspective: The Experiences of Young Persons Testifying to Child Sexual Exploitation in British Criminal Court

ABSTRACT

Three young persons who gave evidence about child sexual exploitation in criminal court using various testimonial supports were interviewed about their testimony experiences. The witnesses reported that they felt extreme pressure to remember events accurately and cared greatly about being believed. None reported their own coping strategies to alleviate stress and took comfort breaks only after they cried on the stand. Defense attorney questions were reportedly repetitive, rapid, confusing, and focused on secondary content rather than the central criminal acts. The witnesses mentioned dissatisfaction in having supportive social workers whom they trusted leave the case and be replaced.

KEYWORDS:

• child sexual exploitation
• testimony
• well-being
• courtroom questioning

Acknowledgments

We sincerely thank the practitioners whose time, passion, and openness made this study possible. We also extend special thanks to the young persons who took part and hope that their voiced experiences can help shape improved legal practices. We would also like to thank Charlotte Leach and Eleanor Prince for their assistance with data preparation. Portions of this research were presented at the British Association for the Study of Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect 25th Anniversary Conference.

Funding

This study was funded by the British Association for the Study of Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect, the Jacobs Foundation, and the Nuffield Foundation.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest is reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the British Association for the Study of Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect, the Jacobs Foundation, and the Nuffield Foundation.