The well-known statistic still rings true: About half of all first-time marriages in the United States end in divorce. This stat increases in likelihood of subsequent marriages, reaching 70% for third-time marriages, according to a research-based article released by Forbes earlier this year. Of dissolved marriages, 61% involve children under the age of 18 living in the home.
What happens to the children whose parents choose to part ways? For many years, the kids almost always ended up living with just one parent, typically the mom. But recent studies reveal a new trend is dramatically on the rise in the U.S.: joint physical custody. This means a child resides with each parent for an equal or significant amount of time.
A 2022 study released by Demographic Research revealed that the number of divorces ending in physical joint custody rose from 13% in 1985 to 34% in 2010. “Although the increase is steepest among high-income couples, it’s happening across the socioeconomic spectrum,” says Daniel Meyer, a social-work professor at the University of Wisconsin at Madison who studies child custody.
How do the children fare who spend an equal or significant amount of time between two households? A 2018 study released by the Family Process Journal reveals on average, children in shared arrangements tend to fare slightly better than those in sole custody on a variety of metrics, including life satisfaction, stress levels and self-esteem. That being said, the majority of couples who share custody are usually better off financially, have higher levels of education and have a more amicable relationship. This makes sense, considering it takes money to provide for a child and have consistent means of transportation.
While there are many advocates for joint physical custody, and research shows the scenario is beneficial for children overall, it’s important to note in some situations — like if one parent is abusive or unstable, for example — sole custody is in fact what’s best for the child.