Who should be interviewed first in a child welfare investigation?

In a child welfare investigation, prioritizing the interview of the victim child is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, the victim child can provide firsthand accounts of their experiences, feelings, and the context of any abuse or neglect they may have encountered. This information is vital not only for understanding the immediate situation but also for assessing the child's safety and emotional well-being.

Interviewing the victim child first allows investigators to establish rapport and trust, which can make it easier for the child to open up about their circumstances. Early engagement can lead to valuable insights that may guide the direction of the investigation and ensure that further steps are taken to protect the child from any potential harm.

Additionally, starting with the victim child's perspective helps to center the investigation on their needs and experiences, highlighting the importance of the child’s voice in the process. It is essential to gather this information promptly, as the circumstances may change or the child's emotional state may shift over time.

While interviewing siblings, non-offending caregivers, or offending caregivers can provide critical context and additional information, the priority during an investigation is to safeguard the victim child and understand their situation as clearly and urgently as possible.