PARENTS WHO FAIL - STUDY OF 51 CASES OF TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

This report reviews the concept of termination of parental rights and the role of the child psychiatrist in termination proceedings, and analyzes data based on our experience with 51 cases. We conclude that providing adoptive homes are available, termination of parental rights is a feasible and desirable option when return of children to biological parents is not possible. The child psychiatrist often plays a pivotal role in deciding when termination of parental rights is appropriate, and has a unique opportunity to share knowledge of child development with the court and promote decisions based on the child's best interests. © 1979, The American Academy of Child Psychiatry. All rights reserved.