Victim Assistance Checklists

Special Considerations for Child Victims

Recognize that children react to crimes in ways that can be very different from adults.

Understand that children tend to regress emotionally during times of stress.

Consult a social worker or child psychologist before interviewing a child victim and consider having the social worker or child psychologist present during the meeting.

Be consistent with the terms you use and repeat important information often.

Be aware of the limited attention span of children during interviews.

Provide referrals for counselors who specialize in children’s trauma.

Provide referrals to counselors for parents or other family members.

Civil and criminal laws governing child abuse vary widely throughout the world. Contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services for an explanation of country-specific laws.

Ask the Office of Overseas Citizens Services about legal requirements for creating new custody arrangements for the child, if necessary.

Resource:

U.S. Department of State
Office of Overseas Citizens Services
Office of Children's Issues, Children & Family
Toll Free: 888-407-4747 (8 a.m.–8 p.m. e.t.)
Phone: 202-736-9090
Fax: 202-736-9133
travel.state.gov/abduction/abduction_580.html