Child abuse meeting in Calgary forges community

Child abuse experts from all over the world have gathered in Calgary for a chance to share their latest insights.

Taking action against child abuse is the theme of the bi-annual conference hosted by the Canadian Society for the Investigation of Child Abuse.

The doctors, lawyers, psychologists and social workers at the meeting are talking about the latest research and best practices in the field of child abuse investigations.

Thomas Lyon, a University of Southern California professor of law and psychology, gave a presentation Sunday about how best to interview children who might have been victims of abuse.

"Its the form of the question that really makes the difference," he said.

"The word that I'm spreading is, kids can be very articulate, we just have to know how to question them correctly."

While much of the conference is about sharing best practices, Stephen Johnston, who works with the Society for the Investigation of Child Abuse, says it's also about building a sense of community among professionals who have to face some of the most difficult and tragic stories.

"Being able to recognize others in the field and to share stories and to recognize the stressors that we each bear helps us with our own struggles," he said.

The conference runs until Tuesday.