Allegations of child sexual abuse in child custody disputes: a therapeutic assessment model.

Guidelines are set forth for judges and others who must make decisions in custody disputes that include allegations of child sexual abuse. The focus is on the protection of the child and the model highlights the role of mental health professionals, prescribing separate therapists for child and parent where possible. Allegations of sexual abuse are seen as an indicator of emotional risk for the child, even in cases where the allegations are untrue.