Hayley Cleary
Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University
Key Findings
- The explicit application of developmental principles for juvenile interrogation research and practice is vital for due process and juvenile interrogation research.
Description
In the article, “Applying the Lessons of Developmental Psychology to the Study of Juvenile Interrogations: New Directions for Research, Policy, and Practice,” Cleary examines the need for developmentally informed juvenile interrogation strategies to reduce biological and social vulnerability juveniles have in interrogation settings, uphold due process, and advance progress in the field of juvenile interrogation research. Cleary reviews different approaches to understanding juvenile development, such as psychosocial and neurological development, and the importance of applying that knowledge to juvenile interrogation to better understand juvenile comprehension and decision-making as well as to reduce the vulnerability of juveniles when in police interview situations. Cleary argues the explicit application of developmental principles for juvenile interrogation research and practice is vital for due process and juvenile interrogation research. In conclusion, Cleary notes the importance of further integration in acknowledging and applying research centered on juveniles into police interrogation practice and research.