Psychological Parent
A psychological parent is a term used in psychology to describe a person who has formed a parental-like bond with a child, regardless of whether or not they are the child’s biological parent. This term is commonly used in cases where a child has a close relationship with a caregiver who is not their biological parent, such as a step-parent, foster parent, or adoptive parent.
A psychological parent is someone who has taken on a parental role in the child’s life, providing emotional support, guidance, and care. They may be viewed by the child as a primary caregiver or as someone who plays a significant role in their life. The psychological parent-child relationship is often characterized by a strong emotional bond, mutual respect, and a sense of responsibility towards each other.
In legal contexts, the concept of psychological parenthood may be used to establish parental rights and responsibilities, particularly in cases where the biological parent is absent or has limited involvement in the child’s life. It may also be used to determine custody and visitation arrangements, as well as child support obligations.
Overall, the term psychological parent is used to describe a person who has taken on a parental role in a child’s life, regardless of whether they are biologically related. It recognizes the importance of emotional bonds and caregiving relationships in a child’s development and well-being.