Psychological Expertise in Cases of Interparental Confl ict: Recommendations for Practice

Forensic psychological assessment often comprises technical guidance in courts, especially in more complex matters in different areas to which psychology can provide signifi cant explanatory support. Psychological examination in court proceedings involving children in diffi cult situations of parenting confl icts requires expert technicians to have specifi c knowledge and competence to effi ciently respond to judicial demands, taking into account the best interest of the child. This article reviews some of the key aspects to be analyzed, proposing a refl ection on the areas and elements that should be considered and/or prioritized in such assessments and that raise a series of subjectivities and explorations that go beyond the domain of discourse and facts. The family dynamics, relationships and bonds between family members, expressed preferences and dislikes are dimensions that must to be analyzed for which there simple and complex underlying processes. The forensic psychological assessment should bring together the comprehensive analysis of all these aspects, combining theoretical knowledge with technical and scientifi c competence for the best interests of the child.