In the scenario of divorced parents with a request not to share reevaluation results, what is the best initial step for the psychologist regarding education records if there is no court order restricting sharing?

• A. Share with both parents
• B. Share with mother only
• C. Share with father only
• D. Consult with mother about benefits of sharing educational records with the father

Answer: (D)

When there’s a divorce and a request not to share reevaluation results, the safest, most constructive first move is to involve the custodial parent in a discussion about the potential benefits of sharing the educational records with the other parent. Since there’s no court order restricting disclosure, talking with the mother about how sharing information could support the child’s well-being and continuity of services respects the family’s dynamics and helps obtain informed consent before releasing sensitive information. This collaborative step helps balance parental rights with the child’s interests and avoids unilateral disclosure. If the mother sees clear benefits, she can authorize sharing; if she has concerns, those should be addressed and a plan developed that best serves the child.