Issues in clinical assessment of minimal parenting competence

Examines clinical and methodological issues inherent in assessing minimal parenting competence, and considers the implications of these issues for psychological practice. Issues addressed include (a) differing assumptions about the criteria for judging minimal parenting competence, (b) limitations of psychological tests for measuring parenting fitness, (c) situational influences on the assessment process, and (d) limitations in the interpretation of assessment findings for defining individuals or forecasting future behavior. Specific dimensions of assessment potentially relevant to parenting competence are considered in light of research. Four features of the assessment process are recommended based on the review: (a) clarification of referral questions, (b) use of parenting-specific measures, (c) articulation of parenting strengths and weaknesses, and (d) conservative interpretation and report of findings.