13-1-411 - Behavioral indicators used to determine applicability of evidentiary provisions. - Mississippi Statutes

§ 13-1-411. Behavioral indicators used to determine applicability of evidentiary provisions.
 

The phrase "specific behavioral indicators" when used herein to refer to evidence (regardless of admissibility) that a child has suffered physical or sexual abuse or might suffer traumatic emotional or mental distress if required to testify in court, shall include, by way of illustration and not of limitation, indications of physical or psychological trauma which are (a) well defined, (b) positively correlated or causally linked with the likelihood of traumatic emotional or mental distress on testifying, and (c) rarely, if at all, present in children who have not suffered child abuse, considering the combination or intensity present in the child at issue. 
 

The evidence described in this section shall be provided by competent witnesses, including but not limited to child psychologists, child psychiatrists and other qualified witnesses. 
 

Sources: Laws,  1986, ch. 345, § 6, eff from and after July 1, 1986.