Jc. Wall et C. Amadio, AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO CHILD-CUSTODY EVALUATION - UTILIZING THE BEST INTEREST OF THE CHILD AND FAMILY SYSTEMS FRAMEWORKS, Journal of divorce & remarriage, 21(3-4), 1994, pp. 39-57
This paper provides an integrated approach to child custody evaluation
s through utilizing the ''best interests'' of the child and family sys
tems frameworks. Although these frameworks differ in their basic orien
tations to conceptualizing the process of evaluating child custody cas
es, this article proposes that each model contributes to a comprehensi
ve understanding of the complexities related to such conditions. In ad
dition, these two perspectives offer a basis for making differential d
ecisions based on the unique aspects related to a particular child cus
tody case. The underlying assumptions and theoretical orientations of
both models are identified and explored. Based on a discussion compari
ng and contrasting the two models, this paper offers a framework for u
tilizing both perspectives as well as a method for selecting the most
appropriate approach to employ depending on the unique aspects of a ch
ild custody case. Recognizing the significant interplay between the le
gal and mental health professions, the authors identify the various is
sues that often impede successful collaborative efforts between these
professional groups. In addition, guidelines are offered that can enha
nce the likelihood that these professions can work more effectively to
gether.