Best Interests Matrix
The Best Interests Matrix is a qualitative tool whose primary objective is to map and analyse the key developmental needs, i.e., the “best interests”, of children and adolescents.
Drawing on the literature, its construction considers: (a) the potential risk and protective factors present in the paternal and maternal family units, arranged in rows; and (b) the main dimensions of the developmental needs of the child/adolescent in question, i.e., their “best interests”, in relation to the specific case and the psychosocial demand under evaluation, arranged in columns.
The “dysfunction effects” are driven by disorganizing or hindering forces present in the interaction of children/adolescents with their environment, which limit or hinder their development and adaptation.
The “competence effects” are driven by organizing or generating forces that facilitate the processes of adaptation and autonomy for children/adolescents throughout their development.
Connection to the PRISMA Project
As part of PRISMA, the Matrix will be analysed and tested in different contexts within the Judiciary and the Welfare Services, with the aim of evaluating its practical utility and identifying possible improvements. The results of this process will contribute to the development of materials, publications and training activities associated with the project. For more information about the Matrix, see the reference article.
