Culver-Stockton College psychology students attend mock house simulation

CANTON, Mo. — Students from the Forensic Investigations of Child Maltreatment class at Culver-Stockton College Psychology Department attended a mock house simulation of a child maltreatment investigation on Monday, Nov. 4.

The mock house simulation is designed to give students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world context. The event simulated a case in which students act as part of a multidisciplinary team conducting an investigation. Throughout the day, students navigated the complexities of the investigation process, including understanding and applying trauma-informed care practices, responding to trauma and making decisions based on real-life scenarios.

Students involved in the simulation were from a variety of academic disciplines, drawing from child advocacy studies, psychology, criminal justice and other major courses.

In a press release, C-SC lecturer of psychology Lindsey Knochel said, “The experience offers a valuable opportunity for students to integrate and apply the cumulative knowledge they’ve gained in their studies, preparing them for future work in child welfare, social services, law enforcement and related fields.”

Rylee Loftus, a student in the program, said it was an “eye-opening experience.” Jasmine Carter, another participant, said, “There is a complete difference between book information versus real-life situations. I recommend the mock house. It’s a good life experience.”

The mock house simulation is facilitated through problem-based learning, where students work collaboratively to develop and refine their decision-making abilities in response to complex and sensitive issues surrounding child maltreatment.

The forensic investigations of child maltreatment class at C-SC provides students with an in-depth understanding of the processes involved in investigating cases of child abuse and neglect.