'n Evaluering van 'n spanbenadering by die bepaling van beheer en toesig van kinders

Abstract

THE PSYCHOLOGICAL TEAM APPROACH TO THE CUSTODY OF CHILDREN The purpose of this research is to compare the meaningfulness of the team approach with regard to the evaluation of custody of children with that of a single psychologist. The main hypothesis is that the contribution of the team approach in determining child custody is more meaningful than that of the single psychologist. The purpose of the study was to establish whether the other professions (judges, attorneys, social workers and psychologists that were possibly involved in similar evaluations) found the team approach more meaningful as opposed to the evaluation done by a single psychologist. Chapter 2 discusses the terminology and background history of divorce and child custody. Chapter 3 focuses on the criteria for the evaluation of custody. The team approach is emphasized. In the discussion the multi-disciplinary relationship is highlighted and considered. Chapter 5 considers the model for the evaluation of child custody. Various methods are considered and a working model is provided. Chapter 6 discusses the qualitative research with reference to the ex post facto method. In chapter 7 the results obtained from the questionnaire are expounded. The results are compared in accordance with the focus of the study: Which of the approaches is more meaningful for the different professions - the team or the single psychologist? From the results the following can be deduced: • the final recommendation of the team approach is considered more acceptable; • the team approach is more aware of the trauma and tension of the family members; • the reports from the team are more understandable and clear; • the decisions made by the team are more focused on the best interest of the child; • the team contribution is perceived to be more positive;

• all suppositions affecting attitudes regarding cases of child custody are still used as standard; • the evaluation is for the benefit of the children; • the evaluation appears to be very objective. General conclusions and recommendations are considered in Chapter 8.