‘Best Interests Matrix’: Focusing on Children’s Best Interests in Child Custody Cases

Abstract

many professionals working directly or indirectly with children and adolescents frequently use terms such as “integral protection”, “unique development”, “best interests”, and “subject of rights” but often lack an understanding of their historical origins, particularly in child custody and contact cases. This article explores the historical trajectory of the “best interests principle”, its connection to the biopsychosocial and emotional development of children and adolescents, and introduces a practical tool, the “Best Interests Matrix”, designed to assist psychosocial professionals in focusing on these interests. The proposed tool emphasises the understanding and evaluation of risk and protective factors, which are essential for safeguarding children and adolescents. The Matrix is grounded in a doctoral thesis that compared decision-making processes regarding custody and visitation following divorce in Brazil and England. Findings from a “user evaluation” involving psychologists, social workers, and lawyers trained in the use of the Matrix through a workshop are presented. Overall, these professionals acknowledged the relevance and suitability of the “Best Interests Matrix” for assessing the biopsychosocial and emotional well-being of children and adolescents in custody disputes, highlighting its importance in complex cases.