[The ethical status of the child in family and child psychotherapy].

The implications of the United Nations' Convention on the Rights of the Child for psychotherapy and family therapy with the children are elaborated. Referring to the ethical discourse about patient information and informed consent, the authors suggest to integrate minors into decisions about participation in and goals of therapy. Shortcomings of common ways in dealing with minors in therapy are analyzed and discussed in the light of ethical principles. Empirical data concerning adequate judgments about competences of children are evaluated and suggestions for practical work in therapy and counseling are presented.