Perception-of-Relationships Test (PORT)
by Barry Bricklin, Ph.D.

This effective data-based projective test is designed specifically to assist in child custody decisions. It can be used with children 3 years of age and older.
 
Although it can serve as a general measure of child/parent interaction, the Perception-of-Relationships Test (PORT) is particularly useful in child custody determinations because it reveals the degree to which a child actually seeks “closeness” with each parent, and the extent to which he or she has been able to work out a comfortable, conflict-free relationship with each parent.
 
The test requires the child to draw or respond to seven pictures, all involving the parents or child/parent interaction. These drawings are easily scored using the PORT Test Scoring Booklet and the clear-cut guidelines provided in the Manual. The test yields a Total Score for each parent. The one with the higher score is designated the “primary caretaking parent.”
 
Studies of adversarial court cases show that judges chose the same parent as the PORT did 95% of the time. Additional evidence of validity is presented in the Manual.  Often used in conjunction with the Bricklin Perceptual Scales (described above), this effective yet simple test can bring greater objectivity-and more information-to child custody evaluations.