Attachment goes to court: child protection and custody issues
Date
2022
Journal Title
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Publisher
Attachment & Human Development
Abstract
Attachment theory and research are drawn upon in many applied
settings, including family courts, but misunderstandings are widespread and sometimes result in misapplications. The aim of this
consensus statement is, therefore, to enhance understanding,
counter misinformation, and steer family-court utilisation of attachment theory in a supportive, evidence-based direction, especially
with regard to child protection and child custody decision-making.
The article is divided into two parts. In the first, we address problems related to the use of attachment theory and research in
family courts, and discuss reasons for these problems. To this end,
we examine family court applications of attachment theory in the
current context of the best-interest-of-the-child standard, discuss
misunderstandings regarding attachment theory, and identify factors that have hindered accurate implementation. In the second
part, we provide recommendations for the application of attachment theory and research. To this end, we set out three attachment
principles: the child’s need for familiar, non-abusive caregivers; the
value of continuity of good-enough care; and the benefits of networks of attachment relationships. We also discuss the suitability of
assessments of attachment quality and caregiving behaviour to
inform family court decision-making. We conclude that assessments of caregiver behaviour should take center stage. Although
there is dissensus among us regarding the use of assessments of attachment quality to inform child custody and child-protection
decisions, such assessments are currently most suitable for targeting and directing supportive interventions. Finally, we provide
directions to guide future interdisciplinary research collaboration.
Description
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Article
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Keywords
attachment theory, research, court, child protection, custody disputes
Citation
Forslund, T., Granqvist, P., van IJzendoorn, M. H., Sagi-Schwartz, A., Glaser, D., Steele, M., ... & Duschinsky, R. (2022). Attachment goes to court: Child protection and custody issues. Attachment & Human Development, 24(1), 1-52.