FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE: A REVIEW OF PROCEDURES AND INSTRUMENTS

The aim of the present study was to present an overview of the forensic assessment and psychological testing techniques of child sexual abuse. Eighty-two original articles which included information about psychological instruments on child sexual abuse assessment were gathered. Most of these articles (71.9%) were focused on clinical measures, based on psychological and emotional indicators of sexual abuse, while 28.1% addressed the credibility of the allegations of child sexual abuse. The majority of the clinical measures were developed in the United States, whereas European countries were more involved in the development of instruments to assess the child's testimony. A multidimensional and comprehensive approach is recommended in these cases, including different instruments and techniques.