Refuse-Resist Evaluations (RRE)
A Refuse-Resist Evaluation (RRE) is a specialized forensic psychological assessment designed to investigate the complex etiology of parent-child contact problems. When a child resists or refuses contact with a parent, the family system is often in a state of severe impasse. Rather than relying on competing parental narratives or simplified explanations, this evaluation provides an independent, multi-modal, and evidence-based analysis of the entire family system.
Clinical & Forensic Philosophy
Dr. Forshee’s approach to parent-child contact problems rejects the reductionist practice of pathologizing a child’s resistance as an isolated symptom or attributing the impasse to a single, linear cause. Instead, contact resistance is through the lens of contemporary Parent-Child Contact Problems (PCPP) literature, which conceptualizes these dynamics as multi-causal and systemic.
Interconnected family system factors considered in refuse-resist evaluations of parent-child contact problems
To map the relational impasse, our evaluations are grounded in established clinical and forensic frameworks. Specifically, we utilize Structural Family Systems Theory, developed by Salvador Minuchin, to analyze boundary dissolution, parental alignments, and enmeshment. We also integrate Family Systems Theory, developed by Murray Bowen, to examine triangulation and the ways children are inducted into parental conflict. Finally, developmental and forensic literature is incorporated to assess parentification, the child’s developmental stage, and the impact of chronic litigation on the child’s psychological autonomy.
Terminology and Scope
While terms like “alienation” or “parental alienation” are common in legal and public discourse, they often fail to capture the multi-faceted nature of these cases. A child’s resistance to a parent is rarely unidimensional; it is typically shaped by reciprocal behavioral patterns, interparental conflict, historical parent-child dynamics, and developmental factors. By utilizing the neutral, scientifically accepted framework of a Refuse-Resist Evaluation, we ensure a balanced starting point. This allows for a thorough investigation of all contributing factors, including allegations of realistic estrangement, gatekeeping, and parental alignment, without predetermining the outcome.
When an Evaluation is Appropriate
Because an RRE is a forensic service typically utilized for judicial decision-making, it requires a clear Order defining the referral questions and scope. These evaluations are indicated when a child is actively resisting or refusing contact with a parent, and the underlying drivers are disputed or unclear. They are also appropriate when prior therapeutic interventions have failed to resolve the contact impasse, or when the court requires a comprehensive, de novo (anew) assessment of the family system to determine appropriate custody, parenting time, or clinical intervention frameworks. Dr. Forshee may be retained as a bilateral joint expert, appointed directly by the court, or retained as a private expert by one party within a court-authorized framework.
Process and Methodology
Each evaluation is methodical, transparent, and multi-modal. The process begins with a comprehensive analysis of court filings, prior evaluations, school records, medical or mental health documentation, and electronic communication logs, such as OurFamilyWizard. Dr. Forshee then conducts individual interviews with each parent and independent, developmentally appropriate interviews with each child. When clinically appropriate, structured observations of parent-child relational dynamics may be conducted. Finally, collateral interviews are conducted with relevant professionals, such as therapists, teachers, or guardians ad litem, who are involved with the family system.
Timeline and Fees
Due to the comprehensive nature of these evaluations, the process typically takes two to five months from the receipt of the initial retainer and Order, subject to participant and record availability. RRE’s are forensic services and are not covered by health insurance. Services are provided on a private-pay basis utilizing 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. For current rates and retainer requirements, please contact the practice.