What is a Refuse-Resist Evaluation?
A refuse-resist evaluation is a court-focused psychological assessment designed to understand the factors contributing to a child’s resistance to or refusal of contact with a parent. These matters are often complex and may involve a range of contributing dynamics, including family conflict, relational patterns, developmental factors, and other influences affecting the child’s functioning and relationships. The purpose of the evaluation is not to rely on any single explanation, but to assess the full family system and identify the factors that are relevant to the child’s presentation.
I am typically asked to conduct a refuse-resist evaluation when there are concerns about a child’s relationship with a parent that cannot be adequately understood through competing narratives alone. My role is to conduct a structured, methodical assessment and to provide opinions and recommendations that assist the court in understanding the nature of the parent-child contact problem and how to approach it moving forward.
Interconnected family system factors considered in refuse-resist evaluations of parent-child contact problems
Terminology and Scope
These types of matters are often referred to using a variety of terms, including “alienation” or “parental alienation.” While that language is commonly used in both legal and public discourse, it does not fully capture the range of factors that may contribute to a child’s resistance to or refusal of contact with a parent.
In practice, these cases frequently involve multiple, interacting influences within the family system. A child’s response may be shaped by relational dynamics, developmental considerations, the history of the parent-child relationship, patterns of conflict, and other contextual factors. For this reason, the evaluation process is structured to remain broad in scope and grounded in a comprehensive assessment, rather than organized around any single explanatory framework. The term refuse-resist evaluation is used to reflect a neutral starting point that allows for a thorough and balanced understanding of the issues present, without presuming a particular cause at the outset.
When a Refuse-Resist Evaluation is Appropriate
Because this is a forensic service used for legal decision-making, I conduct refuse-resist evaluations only when there is a clear court order that defines the referral question and scope of the evaluation. These matters are typically highly litigated and require a structured, transparent process that is aligned with the court’s involvement. These evaluations are generally appropriate when a child is resisting or refusing contact with a parent and the reasons for that presentation are unclear, disputed, or involve multiple competing explanations. They may also be necessary when concerns about the parent-child relationship persist despite prior intervention, or when the court requires a more comprehensive understanding of the family system to make informed decisions.
I may be retained by one party as a private expert, jointly retained by both parties, or appointed by the court. Regardless of how I am retained, the evaluation proceeds within a defined scope established through the court process to ensure procedural clarity and neutrality.
My Role as the Evaluator
In a refuse-resist evaluation, my role is to provide an independent, professionally grounded assessment. I am not providing therapy, I am not advocating for either parent, and I am not part of either party’s legal team. I do not provide legal advice, and I am not tasked with confirming or rejecting any single claim. My role is to gather and evaluate information in a careful and methodical manner, drawing from multiple sources of data in order to understand the factors contributing to the child’s presentation. My conclusions are based on the totality of the information available, including interviews, observations, records, and collateral input, rather than any one individual’s account. When participation is limited or important information is unavailable, those limitations are documented and considered in the context of the conclusions that can be reached.
Process and Structure
Each evaluation is structured around the court’s referral question, but most refuse-resist matters involve a comprehensive review of multiple sources of information. The process typically begins with a review of the court order and clarification of the scope of the evaluation. From there, I conduct individual interviews with each parent and the child or children, along with observation of parent-child interactions when appropriate.
The evaluation also includes a review of relevant records, which may include prior evaluations, court filings, transcripts, school records, and mental health or medical documentation. When authorized, collateral input may be obtained from professionals or other individuals involved with the family. Assessment of relevant concerns, including safety and abuse-related allegations, is a standard component of the evaluation process. The overall goal is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the family system by integrating current functioning, historical context, observed interactions, and information obtained from multiple sources.
Timeline and Expectations
Refuse-resist evaluations are comprehensive and require coordination across multiple sources of information. Reports are generally completed within approximately three to five months from the start of the evaluation, depending on scheduling, timely receipt of records, and participant availability. Delays in scheduling, record production, or participation may extend this timeframe.
Insurance and Fee Structure
Refuse-resist evaluations are considered a forensic service and are not covered by health insurance. Services are provided on a private pay basis and operate under a retainer model. An initial retainer is required prior to the start of the evaluation, and all time spent on the matter is billed against that retainer. As the retainer is utilized, additional replenishments may be required to continue services. For current rates and retainer requirements, please contact the practice directly.