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Child custody evaluations are intended to provide the court with information regarding what custody and visitation arrangement will be in the best interests of the children, when the parents are unable to resolve this issue on their own. Often called a "best interests" evaluation, psychologists are ethically obligated to recommend what is best for the children regardless of who requests the evaluation. Many factors are examined to assess what is best for the children. The parents are evaluated to determine whether either parent presents with serious psychological problems, but also to evaluate the parent-child relationship, and to identify conflict issues between the parents. Personality factors are assessed, because some personality characteristics are more likely to contribute to post-divorce conflict, and because some characteristics may negatively impact on the children. The psychologist will also attempt to identify which parent appears to be psychologically closer to the children. The children are also evaluated in a custody/visitation evaluation. The psychologist will assess their emotional connection to each parent, and identify whether the children present with any significant psychological problems. As a "best interests" evaluation, school adjustment and behavioral problems are important factors, and counseling may be recommended to improve the adjustment process. Other factors, such as school involvement, the effects of extended family on the children, the presence of step-family issues, and whether it is possible for the parents to work together for the best interests of the children are also assessed. |
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Donald J. Franklin, Ph.D. is a NJ licensed psychologist (#2244) |
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