Children’s Experiences in Danish Child Advocacy Centers

Children’s Experiences in Danish Child Advocacy Centers: A Look into Forensic Interviews and Medical Examinations

Organized by: International Forensic Scientist Awards
Website: forensicscientist.org

16th Edition of Forensic Scientist Awards 28-29 November 2025 | Agra, India

Introduction

When children are involved in cases of abuse or neglect, their voices and well-being must remain at the heart of every investigative process. In Denmark, Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) have been established to provide a child-centered, supportive environment where young victims can safely share their experiences. This blog explores how Danish CACs conduct forensic interviews and medical examinations, and how children perceive and experience these crucial steps toward justice and healing.

Understanding Child Advocacy Centers (CACs)

Child Advocacy Centers serve as safe spaces where multiple professionals—law enforcement, healthcare providers, psychologists, and social workers—collaborate to support children. Instead of being questioned multiple times by different agencies, children only need to share their story once in a supportive, trauma-informed environment. This approach helps reduce emotional distress and ensures consistency in the child’s testimony.

Children’s Experiences During Forensic Interviews

Forensic interviews are designed to help children share their experiences in a way that is both sensitive and legally sound. In Danish CACs, trained forensic interviewers use age-appropriate language, visual aids, and non-threatening communication styles.
Children report feeling safer when the interviewer shows empathy and patience. However, anxiety and confusion can still arise, especially when the child feels unsure about the purpose of the questions or fears not being believed.

Forensic Medical Examinations: Balancing Care and Evidence

The forensic medical examination aims to collect evidence while ensuring the child’s comfort and dignity. In Denmark, pediatric forensic nurses and doctors are specially trained to conduct these examinations gently and respectfully.
Many children describe feeling reassured when they understand the procedures beforehand and when caregivers are present for emotional support. The use of trauma-informed care—explaining each step, allowing breaks, and ensuring privacy—plays a key role in building trust.

The Role of Trauma-Informed Practice

Trauma-informed care ensures that every aspect of the forensic process recognizes and responds to the impact of trauma. Professionals in Danish CACs receive training to avoid retraumatization, validate children’s emotions, and empower them with choices throughout the process.
This approach not only improves the accuracy of forensic findings but also promotes long-term healing and resilience.

Conclusion

Children’s experiences in forensic interviews and medical examinations are complex, emotional, and deeply personal. Danish Child Advocacy Centers offer a compassionate model that combines justice, healthcare, and emotional support in one coordinated framework. By continuing to listen to children’s voices and improve trauma-informed practices, we move closer to ensuring that every child feels protected, respected, and believed.

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