Anatomically detailed dolls and the evaluation of child sexual abuse allegations: Psychometric considerations.

Abstract

Although anatomically detailed dolls are becoming the most commonly used tool in the validation of sexual abuse allegations, their use is not without significant problems. This evaluation of the psychometric properties of the dolls using the existing empirical literature reveals that there is considerable difficulty in the standardization of the dolls, administration and scoring procedures, and training in the dolls' use. Furthermore, appropriate norms have not been developed. Although good interobserver reliability has been reported, the construct and criterion-related validity has not been demonstrated consistently. The current lack of an empirically based psychometric foundation does not support the use of the dolls in validation interviews, nor the admissibility of doll-based evidence in legal proceedings.* The authors greatly appreciate the critical reviews offered by Walter J. Danforth, Ph.D. and the anonymous reviewers and the editorial assistance of Melissa Giles. An earlier version of this paper, entitled "Play or Reality: Anatomical Dolls in Child Sexual Molestation Investigations," was presented at the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association in New Orleans on August 13, 1989. Requests for reprints should be sent to

Interviewing Young Children about Body Touch and Handling

“…There is a controversy in the field right now about the design of investigative interview protocols: some researchers advocate highly structured interviews (Raskin & Esplin, 1991;Skinner & Berry, 1993); other research teams recommend the incorporation of specific strategies, such as cognitive techniques (Geiselman, Saywitz, & Bornstein, 1993) and the use of graphic cues (Saywitz & Snyder, 1993); while others are satisfied with an aide memoire or a checklist (Jones & McQuiston, 1988). A computer-assisted interview could be programmed to serve a broad range of professionals and protocol "styles.…”

Assumptions and Beliefs About the Role of AD Dolls in Child Sexual Abuse Validation Interviews: Are They Supported Empirically?

“…The state of knowledge surrounding the use of AD dolls current provides an i n s d c i e n t basis for the incorporation of AD doll-based interviews in the validation process (Ceci & Bruck, 1995;Skinner & Berry, 1993;Wolfner et al, 1993). The role of AD dolls in the child sexual abuse process validation process (i.e., when, how, with whom, and by whom) has not yet been adequately delineated.…”

“…However, these studies do not indicate any effort to rule out other factors that may underlie these sexualized doll interactions. Such factors include the family's approach to privacy, nudity, sex education, and sexuality; exposure to pregnancy and/or birth; exposure to pornography; prior victimization; and participation in prevention programs (Skinner & Berry, 1993). In addition, the impact of the sexual abuse investigation process itself should be considered.…”

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