Development of a training programme for state prosecutors to address re-victimization of the sexually abused child during forensic procedures

Abstract

In this study the researcher developed a training programme for state prosecutors to address re-victimization of the sexually abused child during forensic procedures. The study commenced with a literature study focusing on the following aspects: <ul> <li>Person-centred approach as scientific foundation for the work with sexually abused children during forensic procedures.</li> <li>Sexual abuse and the long-term effects thereof.</li> <li>Addressing re-victimization of the sexually abused child during forensic procedures.</li> After finalizing the literature study, the researcher did the empirical study, which was a combined qualitative-quantitative study. The researcher started with the qualitative study, where prosecutors dealing with sexual abuse cases were interviewed to determine their training needs. After their training needs were determined a training programme was compiled. This training programme formed part of the quantitative study and was implemented during a training session for prosecutors at the Justice College in Pretoria. The programme was also evaluated making use of a pre- and post-test questionnaire to determine whether there was a knowledge improvement after the presentation of the programme.