Forensic (Psycho-Legal) Assessments
What is Forensic Psychology and when do you need it?Forensic Psychology is “the provision of psychological information for the purpose of facilitating a legal decision (Blackburn 1996)”. In essence, Forensic Psychology refers to the application of psychology within a legal context and the task of the Forensic Psychologist is to assist the court in making decisions.
Our Forensic Psychologist at the Psych Matters Family Therapy Centre in Bedfordview deals in all three areas of Civil Matters. A. IN DIVORCE DISPUTES, THE FOLLOWING PROCESSES ARE COVERED: Divorce can be a defining moment in any child’s life – how this will impact your child will depend on how you choose to deal with the challenges that the divorce has left. Parents usually become so absorbed in the bitterness as well as the logistical ramifications related to divorce, that they often miss getting to understand how their children view this major life change. Although divorce impacts the entire family and extended system, this traumatic period is the most pivotal time for you, the parent, to see the world through the eyes of your child. As it is well-documented, divorce is recognised as a traumatic and stressful life event usually affecting the adults involved, however, a child of divorced parents also experiences stress, but lacks the emotional expression, cognitive understanding and coping skills to adjust to this major life event. Understanding how your child experiences the divorce will help you identify and address potential problems early. In many divorce proceedings, some form of dispute needs to be addressed, often leaving both parties angry and bitter, which has an impact on clear decision-making. It is then recommended that a Forensic Psychologist be consulted to assist both parties with an objective view and to assist you and your family in the decision-making process keeping the best interests of your child in mind. In terms of the new Children’s Act 38 of 2005, and the Children’s Act Amendment Bill of 2006 signals a shift from the concept of parental power over children to the concept of parental rights and responsibilities for children. The Children’s Court has been given increase jurisdiction by the Children’s Act, but issues such as guardianship, remain in the jurisdiction of the High Court. The “best interest of the child” is a Constitutional Right and a Forensic Assessment aimed at determining Primary Residency is conducted in terms of the best interest of the child. Our Forensic Psychologist works with the divorcing parents and their respective attorneys, or the family court, and consults with the children. During a forensic assessment, the psychologist will undertake the following:- In-depth psychometric testing of both parents
- Structured interview with both parents
- In-depth psychometric testing of all children
- Semi-structured interview with each child
- Collateral information form significant others including domestic workers, relatives, siblings, therapists, schools.
- Home Visits
- Interactional analysis (of each parent and child)
- Sexual Abuse Evaluation
- Foster Parenting
- Adoption Process