PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF CONTESTED DIVORCE ON MINOR CHILDREN: JUDICIAL PROTECTION AND THE ROLE OF FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY IN FAMILY LAW

Abstract

In contentious divorces, marked by intense conflicts, property disputes, and custody battles, the emotional impacts on children and adolescents can become more profound and lasting. In this scenario, the justice system is called upon to intervene not only to resolve formal issues but also to guarantee the comprehensive protection of minors, in accordance with the principles set forth in the Statute of Children and Adolescents (ECA) and the Federal Constitution. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the psychological effects of contentious divorce on minor children and to understand how judicial protection and forensic psychology can contribute to the comprehensive protection of these children within the scope of Family Law. The methodology used involved bibliographic and documentary research, as well as jurisprudential analysis. The results clearly showed that the integrated action between Law and Psychology constitutes a fundamental path to building more effective and protective solutions in cases of contentious divorce. Adopting practices that prioritize dialogue, psychosocial support, and emotional protection for children can help reduce the negative psychological effects of parental separation. Therefore, strengthening interdisciplinarity in Family Law is essential to ensure that judicial protection is exercised with greater sensitivity, promoting the dignity, safety, and healthy development of children and adolescents.