Attachment theory and research are drawn upon in many applied settings, including family courts, but misunderstandings are widespread and sometimes result in misapplications. The aim of this consensus statement is, therefore, to enhance understanding, counter misinformation, and steer family-court utilisation of attachment theory in a supportive, evidence-based direction, especially with regard to child protection and child custody decision-making. The article is divided into two parts. In the first, we address problems related to the use of attachment theory and research in family courts, and discuss reasons for these problems. To this end, we examine family court applications of attachment theory in the current context of the best-interest-of-the-child standard, discuss misunderstandings regarding attachment theory, and identify fac

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Relationship dissolution is a critical life event individuals have to cope with. Factors like relationship duration and relationship quality or having a new partner are likely to affect how people recover emotionally from a separation, which is linked to long‐term adjustment. However, prospective evidence on the role of these factors is scarce. Hence, this study aims to investigate predictors of emotional recovery following relationship dissolution. Pooled data of the German Family Panel pairfam on 3734 separation events of 2709 individuals aged 18 to 48 were used, applying a statistical model called seemingly unrelated regressions to predict emotional outcomes (relief, anger, guilt, and sadness) and the general emotional state regarding separation. Sociodemographic and relationship characteristics, indicators of relationship quality, conditions of the separation, and features of the current situation were considered as potential predictors. Regression analyses evidence strong links of initiator status, having a new partner, time since separation, and satisfaction with the social network to less negative emotional outcomes following separation. Relationship quality or serious problems before the separation only affected some of the investigated emotional outcomes. Interestingly, the predictors investigated were less powerful in explaining respondents' feelings of guilt compared to the other emotions. Overall, these findings provide deeper insight into short‐term adjustment to separation. Understanding these processes may help to assess risk factors for negative coping mechanisms and improve tailored counseling strategies.

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Kinder psychisch erkrankter Eltern sind vielfach mit familialen Belastungen konfrontiert und haben ein erhöhtes Risiko, selbst an einer psychischen Störung zu erkranken. Präventionsangebote auf Eltern- und Kindebene haben entsprechend hohe Relevanz. Wenig Beachtung in der Forschung fand bislang die Frage, inwieweit therapeutische und beratende Unterstützungsangebote für psychisch belastete Eltern auch der gesundheitlichen Versorgung ihrer Kinder zugutekommen. Fragestellung Die vorliegende Studie untersucht eltern- und kindbezogene Prädiktoren der Inanspruchnahme von therapeutischen und familienbezogenen Unterstützungsangeboten bei Eltern mit selbstberichteter psychischer Belastung. Zusammenhänge zur Inanspruchnahme von Kinder- und Jugendtherapie, auch in Abhängigkeit von der kindlichen psychischen Gesundheit, werden geprüft. Material und Methode Ausgehend von 844 Eltern mit 1146 Kindern im Alter von 7 bis 16 Jahren, die in den Wellen 11 und 12 des pairfam-Panels befragt wurden, umfasst die Stichprobe der Hauptanalysen 161 Kinder, deren Elternteil über Depressionssymptome oder eine psychische Erkrankung berichtete. Angaben zur Inanspruchnahme von Therapie und weiteren Angeboten stammen von dem Elternteil, Angaben zur psychischen Gesundheit der Kinder von diesen selbst. Ergebnisse Etwa ein Drittel der Eltern mit selbstberichteter psychischer Belastung nimmt eine Therapie in Anspruch. Hierbei werden häufiger auch weitere Angebote für Familien und Kinder genutzt. Selbstberichtete Verhaltensauffälligkeiten der Kinder haben jedoch keinen weiteren Effekt auf ihre Versorgungslage. Schlussfolgerung Die Befunde sprechen für eine unzureichende Versorgungslage von auffälligen Kindern psychisch belasteter Eltern, auch dann, wenn die Eltern selbst in Behandlung sind.

Parents go to see child guidance counselling services for many different reasons. Behavioural problems or rather enraged or aggressive behaviour of children and adolescents towards their siblings or parents is a frequent issue in counselling practice. The current article takes a closer look at the range of problems around defiance, anger and aggression from a developmental and systemic point of view. The meaning of these negative affects within the family system is elaborated. Empirical studies show a clear connection between children's problem behaviour and frequent and destructive interparental conflict. So called spill-over-effects play a crucial role in explaining this connection. From a systemic perspective thus the child is seen as a symptom carrier, which shifts the focus of counselling on the interaction between parents as well. Consequently, family therapeutic sessions on the couple level are often indicated. Do parents succeed in constructively solving their conflicts, typically the aggressive behaviour of the children is reduced, too. On the basis of a compound single case such a process is illustrated.