In a custody dispute, what should a psychologist do when evaluating a parent's competence?

Evaluating a parent’s competence in a custody dispute requires a comprehensive understanding of the family dynamics and the factors affecting the children's well-being. Therefore, it is essential for the psychologist to assess not only the parent in question but also the children and, when relevant to the case, the other parent. This holistic approach enables the psychologist to gain insights into the parent’s functioning and parenting capacity, and to understand how the interactions within the family unit may impact the children's development and overall situation.

Considering the overall family context—including dynamics between the parent and children, as well as any significant influences from the other parent—provides a more complete picture, allowing for informed recommendations that best serve the children's interests. Evaluating multiple parties involved ensures that the psychologist can weigh different perspectives and gather pertinent information that can affect custody decisions, thus supporting a more ethical and effective evaluation process.