Assessment of sexual abuse allegations in child custody cases

Family courts frequently rely on the expertise of mental health professionals to assess allegations of sexual abuse within the context of child custody evaluations. Such evaluations are complex and require knowledge of techniques used in sexual abuse and sexual offender evaluations, as well as knowledge of child custody practices. Preliminary findings from a national survey of 84 psychologists indicated that respondents tend to adhere to the child custody guidelines of the American Psychological Association. However, few practitioners followed formal models, protocols, or guidelines when evaluating alleged victims or alleged perpetrators of sexual abuse in conjunction with child custody disputes. Implications for professional practice are discussed, along with a proposed comprehensive model for assessing sexual abuse allegations in child custody cases. How do psychologists assess sexual abuse allegations within the context of child custody cases? This critical issue warrants close examination in light of the increased concern and attention such cases have captured in family court proceedings during the past 15 years. Sexual abuse allegations may surface prior to the divorce decree or after a custody/visitation agreement has been established