Although family law is diverse and does not fit into a neat theoretical statement as do many other areas of law, one consistent theme is present in family law—human behavior. Although relying too heavily and uncritically on empirical data and conclusions can be risky, there is promise and utility in empirical science applied to family law. This book focuses on the premise that empirical research in family law can lead to better outcomes in many situations. Like other texts in the current Law and Psychology series, this book examines and includes a variety of psychological theories stemming fro ... More

Although family law is diverse and does not fit into a neat theoretical statement as do many other areas of law, one consistent theme is present in family law—human behavior. Although relying too heavily and uncritically on empirical data and conclusions can be risky, there is promise and utility in empirical science applied to family law. This book focuses on the premise that empirical research in family law can lead to better outcomes in many situations. Like other texts in the current Law and Psychology series, this book examines and includes a variety of psychological theories stemming from both applied and basic research. With that, the book has four main ambitions. First, it will explain the current state of family law. Second, it will demonstrate the relevance of psychological research to family law topics. Third, it will describe the existing research on those topics. And, fourth, it will outline areas for future research; offering specific research questions in some instances. Family law is inextricably linked with culture and time period; therefore, the book provides historical context and while examining individual behaviors and choices that laid foundations for our evolved and evolving current family law.