Child as an information source : Characteristics of child's testimony and possibilities of its utilization

Abstract

The present study maps the possible sources of unreliability of child,s testimony (lower ability to remember and recall events, high suggestibility, easier formation of false memories, misunderstanding of the processes and interactions in surroundings, probability of deliberate lying) as well as its potential benefits in research and counselling practices. There are some procedures that can help improve or conversely depreciate information given by child.

Keywords

• children
• child,s testimony
• memory
• suggestibility
• competence