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Impasse‐directed mediation with high conflict families in custody disputes
Author(s) -
Campbell Linda E. G.,
Johnston Janet R.
Publication year - 1986
Publication title -
behavioral sciences and the law
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.649
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1099-0798
pISSN - 0735-3936
DOI - 10.1002/bsl.2370040209
Subject(s) - mediation , outcome (game theory) , ambivalence , child custody , psychology , social psychology , criminology , political science , law , mathematics , mathematical economics
In this article we review current mediation models for resolving custody and visitation disputes and their success rates and identify the characteristics of a subpopulation with poor outcome: those parents who are in high conflict, ambivalent about separation, emotionally distressed, and limited in their capacity to protect their children. Based on an understanding of what creates impasses, and how children are affected, we present a new model of mediation for this subpopulation. Preliminary outcome data using this model with 80 families is reported. Implications for establishing a network of services for divorcing families are discussed.