{3:00 minutes to read} In our two previous articles, we began to discuss custody evaluations and relocation. Read part 1 or part 2.

In 2007, Dr. Joanna Bunker Rohrbaugh compiled a list of relocation risk factors and protective factors for children of divorcing parents¹ based on her review of the literature. The risk factors suggest a substantially greater potential for negative outcomes for relocating with children who are: 

• under 10 years of age,
• considered special-needs or not emotionally mature,
• adjusting poorly to the divorce,
• very attached to the left-behind parent or that parent’s extended family,
• involved in the home community,
• not close to, or have a poor relationship with, the relocating parent.

According to Rohrbaugh, one should consider the relationship between the child and both parents in assessing the risk factors associated with a relocation.

With regard to risk factors associated with each parent, Dr. Rorhbaugh’s literature review suggests that if the non-relocating parent has a close relationship with the child and would have difficulty in visiting the child (due to limited financial resources, great geographical distance, a tight work schedule, etc.), then the risk for a negative outcome is likely to be increased. In contrast, if the relocating parent is psychologically well adjusted and able to promote the relationship with the child and the left-behind parent, then the risk for relocation is reduced.

Rohrbaugh also addresses risk factors related to the relationships between the parents. For instance, parents who are unable to cooperate in their parenting and who block access to visitation (the notion of “restrictive gatekeeping” developed by Austin, Kline-Pruett, Kirkpatrick, Flens and Gould; 2013), the relocation risk is increased. Conversely, parents who are able to engage in cooperative parenting (“facilitative gatekeeping”) are at least able to insulate the child from conflict, and the risk entailed in a relocation decreases. 

Finally, Rohrbaugh advises consideration of the characteristics of the move itself in assessing risk factors related to a relocation. Specifically, the greater the geographical distance between the two parents, the greater the risk of adverse outcomes. The risk is also increased if there is no extended family in the new community, and if the new community is poorly equipped with respect to educational or recreational opportunities.  

If you and your spouse were divorcing, how would you determine the risk relocation factors that affect your child? I look forward to your comment or questions. Please contact me at nycforensics@gmail.com. 

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¹Rohrbaugh, Joanna Bunker. A comprehensive guide to child custody evaluations: Mental health and legal perspectives. Springer Science & Business Media, 2007.

Dr. Alberto Yohananoff
NYC Forensics
dryohananoff@nycforensics.com
P: (646) 284-5600
F: (212) 706-9136

Posted in Conflict Resolution