Volume 73 Number 8 December 2006	back to contents

From the Departments of ¹Pediatrics and ²Social Work, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY.

Address all correspondence to Danielle Laraque, M.D., F.A.A.P., Department of Pediatrics, Box 1198, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029-6574; e-mail: danielle.laraque@mssm.edu

Abstract

This review discusses the forensic medical and psychological assessments of children and adolescents suspected of being victims of sexual or physical abuse/neglect. Evaluation of the whole child and the need to minimize trauma during the investigative and assessment processes are stressed. The forensic medical examination is reviewed, including the specifics of the pediatric anogenital examination. The key components of the forensic medical examination in sexual assault cases are also reviewed, with particular attention to maintaining the integrity of the process. Special emphasis is placed on the forensic interview in child sexual abuse cases, the best evidence available and areas in need of further research.

Key Words

Child abuse, child maltreatment, sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, forensic

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