The Transitioning Families Therapeutic Reunification Model in Nonfamilial Abductions

Abstract

The existing literature on abduction reunification is limited and evolving. Although guidelines for model service approaches exist, few programs address the unique challenges of reunifying children and families following abduction. This article delineates a family-based reunification model that has assisted families affected by abduction since 2006. Model components include a team-centered approach, a stage-oriented reunification process, and pitfalls and strategies related to intersystem collaboration. We present the value of a family-systems, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and case-specific approach to therapeutic reunification following child abduction. Evidence that is contrary to the popular notion of Stockholm's syndrome is also marked. Research on the efficacy of therapeutic reunification is essential for the growth of systems equipped to address the dynamic needs of these families. Accordingly, suggestions for evaluation research are proposed. Key Points for the Family Court Community:Families face a range of unique challenges during reunification following abduction. Historically, therapeutic reunification has emphasized the needs of the central victim with only a perfunctory focus on the family. This article delineates a family-based reunification model that has assisted families affected by abduction since 2006. We present the value of a family-system, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and case-specific approach to therapeutic reunification following child abduction.

The Application of the Polyvagal Theory to High Conflict Co‐Parenting Cases

“…Transitioning Families is a multi‐faceted, case specific approach to working with families involved in high conflict divorce, and other types of cases. It was developed as a result of the directors' experiences working with familial and non‐familial abduction (Judge et al, ). It utilizes varied evidence‐based interventions, specific to the needs of each family.…”

Responding to Severe Parent–Child Rejection Cases Without a Parentectomy: A Blended Sequential Intervention Model and the Role of the Courts

“…The Blended Sequential approach differs from those in which the court has ordered therapies for family members as distinct and largely unconnected processes. Intensive programs like Family Bridges may include some possible intervention for the favored parent (Judge et al, ; Warshak, ). Usually the favored parent's participation is voluntary and occurs well after a custody reversal and a prolonged suspension of contact.…”

“…Clinically, there has been an increase in the number of innovative therapeutic approaches developed in attempt to ameliorate parent–child contact issues presenting with mild clinical features to those cases characterized by a number of factors including severe alienating behavior on the part of a parent and alienation of the child. Since the publication of the previous Special Issue of the Family Court Review (2010), devoted to parent–child contact problems, significant effort has been made to develop better interventions (Baker & Sauber, ; Garber, ; Greenberg, Fidler, & Saini, ; Judge et al, ; Judge & Deutsch, ; Smith, ; Walters & Friedlander, ). In practice there is variation between clinicians in the extent to which all members of the family system are involved in the interventions.…”