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Committee on Professional Practice and Standards1 Approved by the Council of Representatives February 1998 Suggested citation: American Psychological Association Committee on Professional Practice and Standards (1998).
Guidelines for psychological evaluations in child protection matters. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association. Guidelines for Psychological Evaluations in Child Protection Matters The problems of abused and neglected children are epidemic in our society (U.S. Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect (ABCAN), 1995) and create issues that psychologists may be called upon to address. According to the U.S. Advisory Board on Child Abuse
and Neglect (ABCAN), conservative estimates indicate that almost two thousand infants and young children die from abuse and
neglect by parents or caretakers each year, or five children every day. McClain's research at the Center for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) suggests that abuse and neglect kills 5.4 out of every 100,000 children age four and under (McClain et al., 1993; McClain, 1995). According to ABCAN, fatalities are not the entire story. There are tens of thousands of victims overwhelmed by lifelong
psychological trauma, thousands of traumatized siblings and family members and thousands of near-death survivors who, as adults,
continue to bear physical and psychological scars. Each year, 18,000 children are left permanently disabled (Baladerian, 1991). Some may turn to crime or domestic violence or become abusers themselves (ABCAN, 1995). When a child is at risk for harm, psychologists may become involved. Psychologists are in a position to make significant
contributions to child welfare decisions. Psychological data and expertise may provide additional sources of information and
a perspective not otherwise readily available to the court regarding the functioning of parties, and thus may increase the
fairness of the determination by the court, state agency or other party. As the complexity of psychological practice increases and the reciprocal involvement between psychologists and the public
broadens, the need for guidelines to educate the profession, the public and the other interested parties regarding desirable
professional practice in child protection matters has expanded and will probably continue to expand in the foreseeable future.
Although psychologists may assume various roles and responsibilities in such proceedings, the following guidelines were developed
primarily for psychologists conducting psychological evaluations in child protection matters.2 These guidelines build upon the American Psychological Association's Ethical Principals of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (APA, 1992)3 and are aspirational in intent. The term "guidelines" refers to pronouncements, statements, or declarations that suggest
or recommend specific professional behavior, endeavor, or conduct for psychologists (APA, 1992a). Guidelines differ from standards
in that standards are mandatory and may be accompanied by an enforcement mechanism (APA, 1993). Thus, as guidelines, they are not intended to be either mandatory or exhaustive and may not always be applicable to legal
matters. Their aspirational intent is to facilitate the continued systematic development of the profession and help to assure
a high level of professional practice by psychologists. These guidelines should not be construed as definitive or intended
to take precedence over the judgement of psychologists. The specific goal of the guidelines is to promote proficiency in using
psychological expertise in conducting psychological evaluations in child protection matters. Parents4 enjoy important civil and constitutional rights regarding the care for their children. A child has a fundamental interest
in being protected from abuse and neglect. Child protection laws attempt to strike a balance between these interests. Under
the concept of parens patriae, all states have the right to intervene in cases where a child is at risk for harm. State interventions most commonly occur
in three stages. In the first stage, following a report of suspected child abuse and neglect5, an investigation occurs. In the second stage, if the findings of the investigation stage indicate the child is at sufficient
risk for harm, the state may assume care and/or custody of the child and may make recommendations for rehabilitation of the
parents. The third stage may occur if such rehabilitative conditions have failed to create a safe environment for the child's
return to the parent(s), or if the child has been returned unsuccessfully. At this point the state may request a hearing for
a final disposition. The final dispositional stage may result in involuntary termination of parental rights. Such a disposition
typically requires not only a finding of abuse and/or neglect by the parent(s), but also a finding that various rehabilitative
efforts with the parent(s) have failed. Psychologists are aware that the most extreme disposition--termination of parental
rights--has a finality requiring both due process protection and a higher standard of proof6 than may be used in other child protection matters. Jurisdictions have statutory or case law requirements that diligent efforts must be made to rehabilitate the parent(s)
and reunite the child with his/her parent(s). Typically, these requirements must be met prior to a disposition of parental
termination. Different states may have different statutory or case law requirements. In conducting an evaluation, psychologists
should be familiar with applicable law.7 During any of the above-mentioned stages, psychologists may be asked to evaluate different parties for different purposes.
Psychologists may act as agents of the court, the child protection agency, or may be directly retained by the parent(s). Psychologists
may also be retained by a guardian ad litem if one has been appointed to represent the child. As evaluators in child protection cases, psychologists are frequently asked to address such questions as: 1. How seriously has the child's psychological well-being been affected? 2. What therapeutic interventions would be recommended to assist the child? 3. Can the parent(s) be successfully treated to prevent harm to the child in the future? If so, how? If not, why not? 4. What would be the psychological effect upon the child if returned to the parent(s)? 5. What would be the psychological effect upon the child if separated from the parents or if parental rights are terminated? In the course of their evaluations, and depending upon the specific needs of a given case, psychologists may wish to evaluate
the parent(s) and/or the child individually or together. Psychologists may wish to gather information on family history, assess
relevant personality functioning, assess developmental needs of the child, explore the nature and quality of the parent-child
relationship and assess evidence of trauma. Psychologists are encouraged to consider specific risk factors such as substance
abuse or chemical dependency, domestic violence, financial circumstance, health status of family members and the entire family
context. Psychologists may wish to review information from other sources including an assessment of cultural, educational,
religious and community factors. Particular competencies and knowledge are necessary when performing psychological evaluations in child protection matters
so that adequate and appropriate psychological services can be provided to the court, state agencies or other parties. For
example, in cases involving physical disability, such as hearing impairments, orthopedic handicaps, etc., psychologists strive
to seek consultation from experts in these areas. Particular attention should also be given to other aspects of human diversity
such as, but not limited to, ethnic minority status, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. Conducting psychological evaluations in child protection matters can be a demanding and stressful task. The demand of such
evaluations can become heightened because the issues involved may include child abuse, neglect and/or family violence. Psychologists
are alert to these personal stressors, and when appropriate, undertake relevant study, training, supervision and/ or consultation. Guidelines for Psychological Evaluations in Child Protection Matters I. Orienting Guidelines 1. The primary purpose of the evaluation is to provide relevant, professionally sound results or opinions, in matters
where a child's health and welfare may have been and/or may in the future be harmed. The specific purposes of the
evaluation will be determined by the nature of the child protection matter. In investigative proceedings, a primary purpose
of the evaluation is to assist in determining whether the child's health and welfare may have been harmed. When the child
is already identified as being at risk for harm, the evaluation often focuses on rehabilitation recommendations, designed
to protect the child and help the family. An additional purpose of such an evaluation may be to make recommendations for interventions
that promote the psychological and physical well-being of the child, and if appropriate, facilitate the reunification of the
family. Psychologists appreciate the value of expediting family reunification when safe and appropriate. In proceedings involving termination of parental rights, the primary purpose of the evaluation is to assess not only abuse
or neglect by the parent(s), but also whether rehabilitation efforts for and by the parent(s) have succeeded in creating a
safe environment for the child's return. 2. In child protection cases, the child's interest and well-being are paramount. In these cases, the state is
intervening in the family based on the concern that the child's needs at that time are not being served by the family, resulting
in the child's psychological or physical harm. Thus, the child's interest and well-being are paramount. In proceedings where
involuntary termination of parental rights is being considered, there is an additional focus: whether the parents have been
or can be successfully rehabilitated. 3. The evaluation addresses the particular psychological and developmental needs of the child and/or parent(s) that
are relevant to child protection issues such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and/or serious emotional harm.
In considering psychological factors affecting the health and welfare of the child, psychologists may focus on parental capacities
in conjunction with the psychological and developmental needs of the child. This may involve an assessment of: (a) the adult's capacities for parenting, including those attributes, skills and abilities most relevant to abuse and/or
neglect concerns; (b) the psychological functioning and developmental needs of the child, particularly with regard to vulnerabilities and
special needs of the child as well as the strength of the child's attachment to the parent(s) and the possible detrimental
effects of separation from the parent(s); (c) the current and potential functional abilities of the parent(s) to meet the needs of the child, including an evaluation
of the relationship between the child and the parent(s); (d) the need for and likelihood of success of clinical interventions for observed problems, which may include recommendations
regarding treatment focus, frequency of sessions, specialized kinds of intervention, parent education and placement. II. General Guidelines: Preparing for a Child Protection Evaluation 4. The role of psychologists conducting evaluations is that of professional expert who strives to maintain an unbiased,
objective stance. In performing protection evaluations, psychologists do not act as judges, who make the ultimate
decision by applying the law to all relevant evidence, or as advocating attorneys for any particular party. Whether retained
by the court, the child protection agency, the parent(s) or the guardian ad litem for the child, psychologists should
strive to be objective. Psychologists rely on scientifically and professionally derived knowledge when making judgements and
describe fairly the bases for their testimonies and conclusions. If psychologists cannot accept this unbiased objective stance,
they should consider withdrawing from the case. If not permitted to withdraw, psychologists disclose factors that may bias
their findings and/ or compromise their objectivity. 5. The serious consequences of psychological assessment in child protection matters place a heavy burden on psychologists.
Because psychologists' professional judgements have great potential to affect the lives of others, psychologists are alert
to guard against factors that might lead to misuse of their findings. For example, in an initial dispositional hearing, psychologists'
findings may be used to separate the child from her/his parent(s). In a final dispositional hearing, the psychologists' findings
may be a factor in the decision to terminate parental rights. The gravity and potential permanence of this consequence underscore
the importance for psychologists to reasonably insure the objectivity of the assessment procedure and findings. 6. Psychologists gain specialized competence. A. Psychologists who conduct evaluations in child protection matters are aware that special competencies and knowledge
may be necessary for the undertaking of such evaluations. Competence in performing psychological assessments of children,
adults and families is necessary but not sufficient. Education, training, experience and/or supervision in the areas of forensic
practice, child and family development, child and family psychopathology, the impact of separation on the child, the nature
of various types of child abuse and the role of human differences.8 may help to prepare psychologists to participate competently in psychological evaluations in child protection matters. B. Psychologists make reasonable effort to use current knowledge of scholarly and professional developments, consistent
with generally accepted clinical and scientific practice, in selecting evaluation methods and procedures. The current Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing (APA, 1985) are adhered to in the use of psychological tests and other assessment tools. C. Psychologists also strive to become familiar with applicable legal and regulatory standards and procedures, including
state and Federal laws governing child protection issues. These may include laws and regulations addressing child abuse, neglect
and termination of parental rights. 7. Psychologists are aware of personal and societal biases and engage in nondiscriminatory practice. Psychologists
engaging in psychological evaluations in child protection matters are aware of how biases regarding age, gender, race, ethnicity,
national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language, culture and socioeconomic status may interfere with an
objective evaluation and recommendations. Psychologists recognize and strive to overcome any such biases or withdraw from
the evaluation. When interpreting evaluation results, psychologists strive to be aware that there are diverse cultural and
community methods of child rearing, and consider these in the context of the existing state and Federal.9 laws. Also, psychologists should use, whenever available, tests and norms based on populations similar to those evaluated. 8. Psychologists avoid multiple relationships. In conducting psychological evaluations in child protective matters,
psychologists are aware that there may be a need to avoid confusion about role boundaries. Psychologists generally do not
conduct psychological evaluations in child protection matters in which they serve in a therapeutic role for the child or the
immediate family or have had other involvement that may compromise their objectivity. This does not, however, preclude psychologists
from testifying in cases as fact or expert witnesses concerning therapeutic treatment of the children, parents or families.
In addition, during the course of a psychological evaluation in child protection matters, psychologists do not accept any
of the participants involved in the evaluation as therapy clients. Therapeutic contact with the child or involved participants
following a child protection evaluation is discouraged and when done, is undertaken with caution. Psychologists asked to testify regarding a therapy client who is involved in a child protection case are aware of the limitations
and possible biases inherent in such a role and the possible impact on ongoing therapeutic relationships. Although the court
may order psychologists to testify as fact or expert witnesses regarding information they became aware of in a professional
relationship with a client, psychologists must appreciate the difference in roles and methods between being psychotherapists
and being child protection evaluators. III. Procedural Guidelines: Conducting a Psychological Evaluation in Child Protection Matters In child protection matters, there are many different situations representing a wide variety of legal and/or ethical considerations.
The appropriate procedure in one case may not be appropriate in another. Psychologists should be alert to applicable laws
which govern the evaluation, as well as applicable sections of the Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct for Psychologists,
particularly those sections dealing with confidentiality. In addition, psychologists appreciate the need for timeliness in
child protection matters (e.g., response to evaluation referral, scheduling appointments, completion of report). 9. Based on the nature of the referral questions, the scope of the evaluation is determined by the evaluator.
The scope of the protection-related evaluation is determined by the nature of the questions or issues raised by the referring
agency, person or court, or is inherent in the situation. In child protection matters, psychologists are frequently asked
to address parenting deficits. Consequently, psychologists are often asked to propose a rehabilitation plan for the parent(s)
or to discuss why prior rehabilitation attempts have failed. The scope and methods of the assessment should be based upon
consideration of the referral questions and the appropriate methods by which to evaluate them. Sometimes the evaluation is
limited to one parent without attempting to compare the parents. Likewise, the scope may be limited to evaluating the child.
At other times, psychologists may be asked to critique the assumptions and methodology of another mental health professional's
assessment. Psychologists may also identify relevant issues not anticipated in the referral questions that could enlarge the
scope of the evaluation. Also, psychologists might serve as pure expert witnesses in such areas as child development or social
psychology, providing expertise to the court without relating it specifically to the parties involved in a particular case.
10. Psychologists performing psychological evaluations in child protection matters obtain appropriate informed consent
from all adult participants, and as appropriate, inform the child participant. Psychologists need to be particularly sensitive
to informed consent issues. Psychological evaluations in child protection matters are often performed at the request
of an agency, by order of a court or at the request of another individual, such as an attorney. Due to the nature of child
protection matters, the complexity of the legal issues involved and the potential serious consequences of the evaluation,
psychologists need to be particularly sensitive to informed consent issues. Efforts toward obtaining informed consent should
make clear to the participant the nature of the evaluation, its purpose, to whom the results will be provided and the role
of the psychologist in relation to the referring party (see APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct,
Standards 1.21 and 1.216 re: third party request for services). This information should be provided in language understandable
to the recipient. Because participants in this type of evaluation may feel compelled to cooperate, psychologists should attempt to obtain
confirmation of the participants' understanding of and agreement to the evaluation, including its purposes and its implications,
prior to the initiation of the evaluation. The Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct requires
appropriate informed consent and many state laws require written consent. Should there be refusal to give consent, it may
be advisable to refer the individual back to his/her own attorney or seek the guidance of the court or referring agency before
proceeding. The purpose of the evaluation, the results and where and to whom the results are distributed are all determined
by the individual characteristics of the case as well as by legal requirements and agency regulations. The Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct suggests that psychologists provide information to the
child as appropriate, to the extent that the child is able to understand. Psychologists explain to the child the nature of
the evaluation procedures. Psychologists attempt to make it clear to the child that his/her safety is the primary interest
and because of that interest, the information will be shared with others. Psychologists allow time for questions by the child
and answer them in a developmentally and culturally appropriate fashion. 11. Psychologists inform participants about the disclosure of information and the limits of confidentiality. Psychologists
conducting a psychological evaluation in child protection matters ensure that the participants, including the child (to the
extent feasible), are aware of the limits of confidentiality for the evaluation results. Psychologists recognize that evaluation
results could be sought by a child protection investigation agency, the court, a guardian ad litem for the child or
an attorney for either parent. When an evaluation is court-ordered, there may be special considerations regarding the limits
of confidentiality and the disclosure of information. In such cases, psychologists will seek to reconcile the APA ethical
standards with fulfilling the demands of the court. A clear explanation of the nature of the evaluation and to whom it will
be released takes place. 12. Psychologists use multiple methods of data gathering. Psychologists strive to use the most appropriate methods
available for addressing the questions raised in a specific child protection evaluation. Psychologists generally use multiple
methods of data gathering, including but not limited to, clinical interviews, observation and/or psychological testing that
are sufficient to provide appropriate substantiation for their findings. Psychologists may review relevant reports (e.g. from
child protection agencies, social service providers, law enforcement agencies, health care providers, child care providers,
schools and institutions). In evaluating parental capacity to care for a particular child or the child-parent interaction,
psychologists make efforts to observe the child together with the parent and recognize the value of these observations occurring
in natural settings. This may not always be possible, for example, in cases where the safety of the child is in jeopardy or
parental contact with the child has been prohibited by the court. Psychologists may also attempt to interview extended family
members and other individuals when appropriate (e.g., caretakers, grandparents and teachers). If information gathered from
a third party is used as a basis for conclusions, psychologists attempt to corroborate it from at least one other source wherever
possible. The corroboration should be documented in the report. 13. Psychologists neither over-interpret nor inappropriately interpret clinical or assessment data. Psychologists
refrain from drawing conclusions not adequately supported by the data. Psychologists interpret any data from interviews or
tests cautiously and conservatively, strive to be knowledgeable about cultural norms and present findings in a form understandable
to the recipient. Psychologists strive to acknowledge to the court any limitations in methods or data used. In addition, psychologists
are aware that in compelled evaluations the situation may lend itself to defensiveness by the participant, given the potentially
serious consequences of an adverse finding. Consequently, the situational determinants should be borne in mind when interpreting
test findings. 14 . Psychologists conducting a psychological evaluation in child protection matters provide an opinion regarding the
psychological functioning of an individual only after conducting an evaluation of the individual adequate to support their
statements or conclusions. This guideline does not preclude psychologists from reporting what an individual has stated
or from addressing theoretical issues or hypothetical questions, so long as any limitations of the basis of such information
are noted. When, despite reasonable effort, a personal evaluation of an individual is not feasible, psychologists report this
and appropriately limit the nature and extent of their conclusions or recommendations. 15. Recommendations, if offered, are based on whether the child's health and welfare have been and/or may be seriously
harmed. When conducting a psychological evaluation in child protection matters, psychologists may choose to make a
variety of recommendations, including but not limited to, psychological treatment for the child, psychological treatment for
the parent(s), and/or suggestions for parental rehabilitation that would help create a safe environment for the child. If recommendations are made, the primary focus must be the child's health and welfare. Recommendations are based on sound
psychological data, such as clinical data, interpretations and inferences founded on generally accepted psychological theory
and practice. Particular attention may be given to outcomes research on interventions with abusive families. Psychologists
strive to disclose relevant information and clinical data pertaining to the issues being evaluated while maintaining an awareness
of the limitations in predicting future violent behavior. They also explain the reasoning behind their conclusions. The profession has not reached consensus about whether making dispositional recommendations in child protection evaluations
is within the purview of psychological practice. However, if psychologists choose to make dispositional recommendations, the
recommendations should be derived from sound psychological data and must be based on considerations of the child's health
and welfare in the particular case. 16. Psychologists clarify financial arrangements. Financial arrangements are clarified and agreed upon prior
to conducting a child protection evaluation. When billing for an evaluation, psychologists accurately describe the services
provided for reimbursement purposes. 17. Psychologists maintain appropriate records. All data obtained in the process of conducting a child protection
evaluation are properly maintained and stored in accordance with the APA Record Keeping Guidelines (APA, 1993). All
records, including raw data and interview information, are recorded with the understanding that they may be reviewed by other
psychologists, the court or the client. The following definitions are written generally and are intended solely to familiarize readers to some common terms used
in child protection matters. These are not to be construed as uniformly accepted legal definitions or applied in specific
legal matters. Readers wishing to use these terms as part of their evaluations are encouraged to confer with a licensed attorney
in the state in which they are providing the evaluation..10 Abuse, emotional: also referred to as 'psychological maltreatment' generally defined as a repeated pattern of behavior
that conveys to children that they are worthless, unwanted or only of value in meeting another's needs; may include serious
threats of physical or psychological violence. Abuse, physical: generally defined as the suffering by a child, or substantial risk that a child will imminently suffer,
a physical harm, inflicted non-accidentally upon him/her by his/ her parents or caretaker. Abuse, sexual (child): generally defined as contacts between a child and an adult or other person significantly older
or in a position of power or control over the child, where the child is being used for sexual stimulation of the adult or
other person. Abuse, neglect: (see Neglect) Burden of proof: an obligation by a party (e.g., plaintiff in civil cases, the state in a termination of parental rights
matter) to demonstrate to the court that the weight of the evidence in a legal action favors his/her side, position or argument.
Beyond a reasonable doubt: highest standard of proof used in cases where the loss of liberty interests are at stake
(e.g., incarceration or loss of life). Generally defined as the highest degree of support or level of certainty (90-95% chance). Child Protective Services (CPS): The social service agency (in most states) designated to receive reports, investigate
and provide rehabilitation services to children and families with problems of child maltreatment. Frequently, this agency
is located within a large public entity, such as a department of social services or human services. Clear and convincing: intermediate standard of proof used in cases when significant liberty interests are at stake
(e.g., loss of parental rights, civil commitment). Generally defined as a high degree of support or level of certainty (75%
chance). Disposition hearing: held by the Juvenile/Family Court to determine the disposition of children after cases have been
adjudicated, includes determinations regarding placement of the child in out-of-home care when necessary and services needed
by the children and family to reduce the risks and address the effects of maltreatment. Evidence: any form of proof presented by a party for the purpose of supporting its factual allegation or arguments
before the court. Expert witness: an individual who by reason of education or specialized experience possesses superior knowledge respecting
a subject about which persons having no particular training are incapable of forming an accurate opinion or deducing correct
conclusions. A witness who has been qualified as an expert will be allowed (through his/ her answers to questions posted)
to assist the jury in understanding complicated and technical subjects not within the understanding of the average lay person.
Experts are also allowed to provide testimony based on "hypothetical" scenarios or information/opinions which are not specifically
related to the parties in particular legal action. Fact witness: generally defined as an individual who by being present, personally sees or perceives a thing; a beholder,
spectator or eyewitness. One who testifies to what he/she has seen, heard, or otherwise observed regarding a circumstance,
event or occurrence as it actually took place; a physical object or appearance, as it usually exists or existed. Fact witnesses
are generally not allowed to offer opinion, address issues that they do not have personal knowledge of or respond to hypothetical
situations. Family/Juvenile court: courts specifically established to hear cases concerning minors and related domestic matters
such as child abuse, neglect, child support, determination of paternity, termination of parental rights, juvenile delinquency,
and family domestic offenses. Family preservation/reunification: the philosophical belief of social service agencies, established in law and policy,
that children and families should be maintained together if the safety of the children can be ensured. Guardian ad litem: generally defined as an adult appointed by the court to represent and make decisions for someone (such as a minor) legally
incapable of doing so on his/her own in a civil legal proceeding. The guardian ad litem can be any adult with a demonstrated
interest. Guardianship: legal right given to a person to be responsible for the necessities (e.g., food, shelter, health care)
of another person legally deemed incapable of providing these necessities for him/ herself. Maltreatment: generally defined as actions that are abusive, neglectful, or otherwise threatening to a child's welfare.
Commonly used as a general term for child abuse and neglect. Neglect: generally defined as an act of omission, specifically the failure of a parent or other person legally responsible
for a child's welfare to provide for the child's basic needs and proper level of care with respect to food, shelter, hygiene,
medical attention or supervision. a. emotional: generally defined as the passive or passive-aggressive inattention to a child's emotional needs, nurturing
or emotional well-being. Also referred to as psychological unavailability to a child. b. physical: generally defined as a child suffering, or in substantial risk of imminently suffering, physical harm
causing disfigurement, impairment of bodily functioning, or other serious physical injury as a result of conditions created
by a parent or other person legally responsible for the child's welfare, or by the failure of a parent or person legally responsible
for the child's welfare to adequately supervise or protect him/her. Out-of-home care: child care, foster care, or residential care provided by persons, organizations, and institutions
to children who are placed outside of their families, usually under the jurisdiction of Juvenile/Family Court. Parens patriae: refers traditionally to the role of state as sovereign and guardian of persons under legal disability. It is a concept
of standing utilized to protect those quasi-sovereign interests such as health, comfort and welfare of the people, interstate
water rights, general economy of the state, etc. Literally means "parent of the country." Petition: a formal written application to the court requesting judicial action on a particular matter. Preponderance of evidence: lowest of the three standards of proof, and applied in most civil actions; generally defined
as "probable" degree of certainty (e.g., "more likely than not" or 51% chance). Protection order: may be ordered by the judge to restrain or control the conduct of the alleged maltreating adult or
any other person who might harm the child or interfere with the disposition. Review hearing: held by the Juvenile/Family Court to review dispositions (usually every 6 months) and to determine
the need to maintain placement in out-of-home care and/or court jurisdiction of a child. Every state requires state courts,
agency panels, or citizen review boards to hold periodic reviews to reevaluate the child's circumstances if s/he has been
placed in out-of-home care. Federal law requires, as a condition of Federal funding eligibility, that a review hearing be
held within at least 18 months from disposition, and continue to be held at regular intervals to determine the ultimate resolution
of the case (i.e., whether the child will be returned home, continued in out-of-home care for a specified period, placed for
adoption, or continued in long-term foster care). Termination of parental rights hearing: formal judicial proceeding where the legal rights and responsibility for a
child are permanently or indefinitely severed and no longer legally recognized and where the state assumes legal responsibility
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American Psychological Association. Child Abuse and Neglect: The International Journal Child Welfare Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Journal of Family Violence Journal of Interpersonal Violence Child Maltreatment: Journal of the American Professional Society of the Abuse of Children American Academy of Pediatrics American Bar Association Center on Children and the Law American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children Child Welfare League of America Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information Family Violence and Sexual Assault Institute National Association of Counsel for Children National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse National Resource Center on Child Sexual Abuse 1These guidelines were drafted by the Committee on Professional Practice and Standards (COPPS), a committee of the Board of Professional Affairs (BPA). COPPS is responsible for developing and recommending to BPA standards
and guidelines for providers of psychological services and for monitoring, evaluating, and developing information regarding
the scientific and professional aspects of psychological services. This paper was developed under the auspices of COPPS, reviewed
by numerous APA divisions, committees, and state psychological associations, and is endorsed by the BPA. The document reflects
the contributions of many psychologists. The manuscript was drafted by COPPS members Catherine Acuff, Ph.D.; Steven Bisbing,
Ph.D.; Michael Gottlieb, Ph.D.; Lisa Grossman, Ph.D.; Jody Porter, Ph.D.; Richard Reichbart, Ph.D.; Steven Sparta, Ph.D.;
and C. Eugene Walker, Ph.D. COPPS also acknowledges and appreciates the support of APA staff members Billie Hinnefeld and
Cherie Jones. Correspondence concerning this paper should be addressed to the
Practice Directorate, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242.
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