Relato de Experiência na Delegacia de Proteção à Criança e ao Adolescente de Teresina, Piauí

Tendenciosidade e viés de desejabilidade no testemunho infantil

Abstract

The Psychology of Testimony, a subfield of Legal Psychology, studies the reliability of witness reports, especially in the context of legal evidence production. This paper stems from practical experience as a legal psychologist at the Child and Adolescent Protection Police Station (DPCA) in Teresina, Piauí, with a focus on interviewing children and adolescents who are alleged victims of crimes. Based on this daily practice, the study discusses the complexity of collecting child testimony, which is influenced by factors that may compromise its accuracy, such as interviewer bias and the social desirability bias present in children's responses. The paper critically reflects on two central aspects: (1) the biased conduct of the interview, influenced by the belief in the absolute truth of the child’s report, and (2) the effects of social desirability bias on the child’s testimony, leading to responses that align with the perceived expectations of the interviewer. This qualitative study employs a literature review with an empirical basis to describe and analyze these variables within the context of investigative interviews conducted by the Civil Police. Finally, it proposes the adoption of scientifically validated methods that can enhance the reliability of child testimony and safeguard both the child’s rights and the integrity of the investigative process.