Forensic Psychological Assessment of Parental Alienation: The Jurist’s View

Abstract

A qualitative study of legal practitioners’ perceptions of the role of forensic psychologists in proceedings involving parental alienation (PA) is presented. Data on 71 legal practitioners in the state of Mato Grosso/Brazil were collected via online survey and then subjected to quantitative and qualitative analysis. The results focus on the performance of Mato Grosso psychologists, acting as accredited service providers, in terms of their technical capacity for PA certification, in support of the judicial decision and protection of the child, adolescent and family. AP verification involves a complex psychological assessment, requiring specialist training and excellent technical and personal skills of the psychologists involved. Suggestions to improve praxis include more professionals, better logistical and technical conditions, and an interdisciplinary and ethical approach.