Child Health and Safety Factors in Custody Evaluations

Abstract

Legal guidelines indicate that physical health factors need to be considered in custody recommendations, but there is little information available regarding how to assess this area. Because of the common risks to children associated with parental tobacco use and safety practices, custody evaluators need to attend to such behaviors. Empirical evidence is reviewed regarding the harmful medical impact on children of environmental tobacco smoke, and the increased risk of a child using tobacco if a parent smokes. Research is reviewed regarding child injury risks and reasonable expectations for parental efforts to prevent injuries. Proposals are made that integrate research with practice.

Key Words:

• Child custody
• evaluation
• health
• smoking
• safety