Whether you have already filed for divorce or you are getting ready to terminate your marriage, you may feel overwhelmed with the task in front of you. It can be difficult dividing property and determining custody when creating a divorce settlement. Determining what is best for your children is one of the most important tasks, and part of that means deciding who your child will live with, as well as visitation and parenting rights. While sole-physical custody, or living primarily with one parent, is fairly common among divorced couples, studies show the benefits of joint-custody and how it can be advantageous for kids.
A study looked at kids raised in sole-custody households, joint-custody arrangements and traditional families. Researchers found that kids who grew up in joint-custody households had higher self-esteem, fewer behavioral issues and stronger family relationships than those who spent the majority of their time with one parent. The children also performed better in school. Over a long period of time, children who spent a significant amount of time with both parents have better careers, receive a higher level of education, have stronger support centers and are emotionally stable.
Parents who share custody of their children often get along with one another better, leaving children with less conflict and negative feelings toward the divorce situation. Children who have access to their fathers have also been shown to be more independent in their environments.
Although it may be less complicated to leave the child at one parent’s house the majority of the time, it may not be best for kids long-term. The contributions each parent makes toward the child and the benefits of doing so may be worth the efforts.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.
