Question 1

The prior use of the term chattel suggested that children were considered _______________________.

Accepted Answer

The term "chattel" refers to personal property, and using it to refer to children suggests that they were considered as personal property or possessions rather than individuals with their own rights and agency.

Question 2

Surveys of forensic experts reveal that they rate ____________________ as the most important criteria for determining child custody.

Accepted Answer

Surveys of forensic experts consistently reveal that the absence of domestic violence is the most important criteria for determining child custody, as the safety and well-being of the child is of utmost importance. While other factors, such as moral fitness and community records, may also be considered in the evaluation process, they are typically secondary to the issue of domestic violence. The permanence of the family unit may also be important, but only if it is in the best interest of the child and does not pose a risk to their safety.

Question 3

Which of the following criteria do experts in the Akerman and Akerman 1997) study identify as the least important in determining custody?

Accepted Answer

Experts in the Akerman and Akerman (1997) study identified "bitterness about the divorce" as the least important criterion in determining custody, as it does not directly impact the child's well-being or the parent's ability to care for the child.

Question 4

Which of the following is true regarding child custody evaluators?

Accepted Answer

Child custody evaluators typically have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. This is essential for their practice since they work with families who have children of different ages and parents who may have different psychological issues to be addressed during the custody evaluation process. Option B is incorrect since child custody evaluators are typically licensed psychologists and have extensive experience practicing psychology. Option C is incorrect since confidentiality is a critical component of the custody evaluation process, and evaluators are required to explain the limits of confidentiality to their clients. Option D is incorrect since custody evaluations typically involve a comprehensive assessment that can sometimes take weeks to complete; thus, evaluators spend a significant amount of time conducting these evaluations.

Question 5

Which of the following is not one of the reforms that Emery et al. 2005) recommend for child custody evaluations?

Accepted Answer

Requiring couples to attend counseling prior to any divorce involving children is not one of the reforms recommended by Emery et al. (2005). The other options are reforms that they do suggest, such as limiting expert testimony and improving legal standards for child custody.

Question 6

________ custody means that a child lives with a particular parent and that parent is primarily responsible for the daily care of that child.

Accepted Answer

Physical custody refers to the parent with whom the child lives and who is responsible for the child's daily care, such as feeding, clothing, and supervising the child. Sole custody refers to one parent having the primary physical and legal custody of the child, while legal custody refers to the right to make decisions about the child's upbringing, such as education and healthcare. Parental custody is not a commonly used term.

Question 7

The _______________________ is now the most widely used standard for determining custody.

Accepted Answer

The best interest of the child standard is now the most widely used standard for determining custody. This standard takes into consideration a variety of factors such as the child's physical and emotional needs, the parent's ability to provide for those needs, the child's preference if old enough to express it, and any potential risks or harm to the child. The other options provided, such as the tender-years doctrine or least detrimental caregiver, have been largely disfavored in recent years due to gender bias and lack of consideration for the child's overall best interest.

Question 8

According to APA guidelines, which of the following is unacceptable with regard to child-custody evaluations?

Accepted Answer

Engaging in dual relationships is considered unethical in child-custody evaluations as it can compromise objectivity and impartiality. Recognizing one's biases and values is actually encouraged and can help the evaluator remain aware of potential sources of bias. Clearly identifying the limits of confidentiality is also important and necessary.

Question 9

Most child custody experts prefer ______________________.

Accepted Answer

Most child custody experts prefer to be retained by both parents to ensure neutrality and fairness in the evaluation process. This approach helps in maintaining an unbiased stance and facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of the family dynamics, which is crucial for making informed custody recommendations.

Question 10

Which of the following has been a frequent criticism of the Best Interest of the Child Standard according to the text?

Accepted Answer

The text states that one frequent criticism of the Best Interest of the Child Standard is that judges lack adequate training to make determinations properly.

Question 11

Which of the following is the most frequently administered test to parents, as a part of child-custody evaluations?

Accepted Answer

The MMPI-2 (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2) is the most frequently administered test to parents in the context of child-custody evaluations. It is a widely used psychological assessment that helps evaluate personality traits and psychopathology, providing valuable insights into the psychological state of the parents.

Question 12

_________________ occurs when each parent is awarded custody during different times of the year.

Accepted Answer

Divided custody occurs when each parent is awarded custody during different times of the year, allowing the child to live with each parent for a portion of the year.

Question 13

Bauserman 2002) concluded that _________________________, based on his meta-analysis of the literature.

Accepted Answer

Bauserman's meta-analysis indicated that children in joint custody were better adjusted than children in sole custody.

Question 14

Because of its value laden nature, one of the most difficult decisions a court can make is ________________.

Accepted Answer

The determination of child custody is a highly complicated and emotionally charged decision that requires a judge to weigh numerous factors, including the best interests of the child, the ability of each parent to provide for the child's physical and emotional needs, and any evidence of abuse or neglect. The court's decision can have far-reaching effects on the lives of the children and their families, making it one of the most difficult decisions a court can make. The other options are also complex issues, but child custody involves a wider range of considerations and has a greater potential impact on individuals' lives.

Question 15

Which of the following is true of child custody determinations?

Accepted Answer

Courts may be more cautious or selective in adopting the opinions of forensic psychologists in child custody cases due to the sensitive nature of these decisions and the impact on children's lives. This reflects a recognition of the complexities involved in determining what is in the best interest of the child, which is the standard used in custody decisions.

Question 16

At what age do child custody experts believe a child should be allowed to choose a parent?

Accepted Answer

The answer of At what age do child custody experts...

Question 17

_____________ of child custody cases involve allegations of sexual or physical abuse.

Accepted Answer

The answer of _____________ of child custody cases involve allegations...

Question 18

According to Bow and Quinnell 2001), which of the following did custody experts rate as the most important procedure in conducting a custody evaluation?

Accepted Answer

According to Bow and Quinnell (2001), custody experts rated a clinical interview with both parents as the most important procedure in conducting a custody evaluation. While home visits, psychological testing of the child, and a clinical interview with the child may also be important components, they were not rated as the most critical.

Question 19

Which has not been a preference the courts have shown in awarding custody?

Accepted Answer

The physical resemblance of a parent to a child has not been a preference that courts consider when awarding custody. The court's primary concern is the best interests of the child, which can include factors such as the ability to provide a stable living environment, emotional support, and financial stability. The father, blood relatives, and heterosexual parent may all be considered in custody decisions, but they are not automatic preferences.

Question 20

In the tender-years doctrine, who is considered to be the "natural custodian of a child of tender years?"

Accepted Answer

The tender-years doctrine holds that in cases involving custody of children of tender years (usually under the age of five), the mother is presumed to be the "natural custodian" of the child, and custody will be awarded to her unless it is shown that she is unfit or that awarding custody to her would not be in the best interest of the child. Therefore, the correct answer is C, the mother.

Quiz 12: Child Custody