Parents seeking to limit the impact of divorce on their children might want to take a look at joint custody. It is one of the best potential options for kids of divorce due to the numerous benefits it offers.
Exactly what should you know about joint custody? What benefits does it actually offer?
Improved coping
The American Psychological Association discusses joint custody and its impact on kids of divorce. Generally speaking, kids who go through joint custody will have better mental health. They have lower reported rates of anxiety and depression, along with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder.
They also tend to develop better coping mechanisms at an earlier point in life. This can salvage relationships, as they lash out less often at their peers and do not get into as much trouble with authority figures.
Healthier relationships
They have healthier relationships as adults, too. This includes romantic relationships. On top of that, as adults, they tend to have fewer problems with addiction. On the other hand, children of sole custody have higher rates of addiction to gambling, drinking, smoking and more.
The reason behind the impact
Studies explain that this might happen due to joint custody providing a child with dual support. They do not have to readjust to an entirely new family dynamic either, as both of their parents still have involvement in their life.
Many kids fear change and the possibility of unfamiliarity or abandonment above all else. Joint custody can help assuage all of these fears at once. This is what makes it such a good option for families that can make it work.
