What are the Benefits of Joint Custody

When parents want what is best for their child even in a post-divorce scenario, they often turn toward joint custody.

Through the years, joint custody has shown itself a great supporter of children of divorce, providing numerous benefits to the entire family.

Healthier coping and relationships

Talking Parents discusses how joint custody works. In this arrangement, parents share joint legal custody – and sometimes even physical custody – over their child. Studies over the years and across the globe have shown a universal benefit to this custody option.

For one, children of joint custody have a better track record regarding the development of healthy coping mechanisms. This often lasts the child into adulthood, too.

It also translates to healthier relationships with other people as a result of these better coping mechanisms. They tend to get along better with classmates, have fewer brushes with authority figures, and have healthier romantic relationships later in life.

Better mental health

Many also report a lower rate of depression and anxiety specifically related to their parent’s divorce. There is also a lower rate of other mental health struggles like post traumatic stress disorder.

Studies speculate that these benefits come from the fact that the children who experience joint custody often experience a healthier post-divorce home environment. Their parents can often respect one another well enough to keep their arguments behind closed doors, so their children do not feel dragged in or trapped between the two.

These children often experience a sense of stability that other types of custody cannot necessarily provide, too. This helps them tackle the uncertain future with more determination and positivity.