Children likely to be better adjusted with shared parenting says peer reviewed report
There is a great study conducted by Robert Bauserman that demonstrates how much better adjusted kids are when they come from a family that has utilized joint custody strategies versus single parenting. The study can be read at http://www.apa.org/releases/custody2.html
Per the study, “Children in joint custody arrangements had less behavior and emotional problems, had higher self-esteem, better family relations and school performance than children in sole custody arrangements. And these children were as well-adjusted as intact family children on the same measures, said Bauserman, “probably because joint custody provides the child with an opportunity to have ongoing contact with both parents.”
It’s difficult to understand how most States only supports joint custody if both parents agree. Obviously, in most cases, if one parent does not agree, they are not looking at the best interest of the child. Yet, our courts consistently support this individual decision. It would seem the courts have made a decision in the best interest of the person least likely to ensure the best interest of the child, rather than make a decision in the childs best interest. Have I missed something here?
December 9th, 2009 at 6:11 am
I need help recently divorced. My daughter I have full custody of my 15 year old son he has full custody of this was do to how they felt. Our 9 year old son shared parenting. He does not follow the plan i am to be called for transportation if he cant do it If he needs a sitter. In stead his mom moved in and is taking over. He is trying to shut me out. I have no money to take him back to court. He leaves my sons all night with his mom to be with his girlfriend instead of calling me and letting me have them I am still their mother. Is there help out ther for me or do I just let him rip my children aaway.
March 8th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Nice post. blog.usshzredparenting.com is killer.
August 15th, 2010 at 5:49 pm
@Annette - It’s called “First right of refusal”. That he means he needs to call you first, before he would call anyone else to watch them, any time they’ll be alone. In my case, it’s 4 hours for our son. In your case, just because their grandmother is in the house, it shouldn’t allow him to go out all night.
The parenting situation is about giving each parent time with the children, to keep the bond that they have. You should have the right to see them before they stay with his mother, even she lives there, too.
Your local family court may be able to help you.