Temas em Psicologia
Print version ISSN 1413-389X
Abstract
PELISOLI, Cátula; DOBKE, Veleda and DELL'AGLIO, Débora Dalbosco. Special testimony: beyond legal conflicts and in favor of the protection of children and adolescents victims of sexual violence. Temas psicol. [online]. 2014, vol.22, n.1, pp.25-38. ISSN 1413-389X. https://doi.org/10.9788/TP2014.1-03.
The Judiciary Inquiry method of testimony for children and adolescents who suffered sexual abuse, called special testimony, has been discussed by professionals and there are divergent opinions about it. This article aims to present historically the Special Inquiry method that has been used in Brazil, firstly named Testimony without Damage, and discuss the needs of the area for a better direction of this activity. The conclusions from the literature review and interlocution between Psychology and Law show that these legal and technical disagreements seem not to be working in children's favor. The area needs to reinforce the abilities to work together in a respectful dialogue with an equitable knowledge exchange. The practice of the special testimony is possible and necessary, however some changes can bring benefits and greater protection for Brazilian children and adolescents.
Keywords : Special testimony; testimony without damage; inquiry; sexual abuse; Forensic Psychology.