parental adequacy

[/pəˈrentəl ˈædɪkwəsi/]
noun
adequação parental
1. The quality or state of being a sufficient and competent parent; the ability to meet a child's physical, emotional, psychological, and developmental needs appropriately
The court assessed parental adequacy before making custody decisions.
O tribunal avaliou a adequação parental antes de tomar decisões sobre a guarda.
2. In psychology and social work, the degree to which a parent demonstrates appropriate caregiving skills, emotional stability, and capacity to provide a safe environment
The social worker documented parental adequacy through home visits and interviews.
A assistente social documentou a adequação parental através de visitas domiciliares e entrevistas.
This term is primarily used in legal, psychological, and social work contexts in both Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, it is commonly referenced in family court proceedings, especially regarding custody disputes and child protection services (CRAS and CREAS). In the United States, it is frequently used in child welfare evaluations and court-ordered psychological assessments. The concept reflects both legal standards and clinical judgment about a parent's ability to provide appropriate care.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
parental competenceparenting adequacyparental capacityfitness as a parent
Antonyms / Antônimos
parental inadequacyparental incompetenceparental unfitnessnegligent parenting

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
adequação parental
Standard term used in legal and social work contexts
São Paulo
competência parental
Alternative term sometimes used in formal legal proceedings
Rio de Janeiro
capacidade parental
Alternative term emphasizing parental capacity
Portugal
adequação parental or capacidade parental
Both terms used in Portuguese family law and social services

Related Words

parental responsibilitychild welfarecustody evaluationparenting skillschild developmentfamily assessment

Related Idioms & Phrases

fit and proper parent
meet the standard of parental care
demonstrate adequate parenting
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