Ordered that the order is affirmed insofar as appealed from, without costs or disbursements.
"The essential consideration in making an award of custody is the best interests of the child" ( Mohen v Mohen, 53 AD3d 471, 472-473; see Eschbach v Eschbach, 56 NY2d 167, 171; Friederwitzer v Friederwitzer, 55 NY2d 89, 94). "Custody determinations depend largely upon the court's assessment of the credibility of witnesses, as well as the parties' character, temperament, and sincerity" ( Matter of Yasus v Yasus, 69 AD3d 738, 739; see Matter of Brass v Otero, 40 AD3d 752, 752). Thus, where the court has conducted a complete evidentiary hearing, its findings should be accorded deference, and its custody determination will not be disturbed unless it lacks a sound and substantial basis in the record ( see Eschbach v Eschbach, 56 NY2d at 173; Matter of Yasus v Yasus, 69 AD3d at 739; Matter of Brass v Otero, 40 AD3d at 752).
Here, the Family Court's finding that the child's best interests would be served by an award of physical custody to the father has a sound and substantial basis in the record and will not be disturbed ( see Matter of Ganzenmuller v Rivera, 40 AD3d 756, 757).