Research such as this often-cited paper by Paul R. Amato and Bruce Keith, from the University of Nebraska and West Virginia University respectively, regularly shows that their parents divorcing can have a very negative impact on children. It can potentially lead to stress, anxiety, depression, ill health and poor academic achievement. However, staying together for the sake of the children, even if the relationship is in tatters, is by no means recommended either.

Could shared care help to ease the effects of divorce?

Over in Sweden, researchers have potentially unearthed a way for separating couples to make the process easier for their children, and to reduce the risk of them experiencing psychological problems during their childhood.

The study, headed by Emma Fransson’s team at Stockholm University and the Karolinska Institute, studied the psychological wellbeing of over 4,500 children. They found that psychological complaints were lower amongst those children in joint custody with both parents, compared to those spending all of their time with just one parent. In fact, the children in joint parental care had the same level of psychological complaints as those in nuclear families where their parents were still together.

Making the Swedish model of shared parenting work in real life

In Sweden, the number of children who spend half or at least 35% of their time with each parent is nearly 50%. Meanwhile, in the UK, this figure is currently only around 12%.

Divorcing couples reading this may think that copying the Swedish model of shared parenting isn’t such a good idea, as they may naturally have concerns about exposing the child to arguments or confusing them with constant moves between houses.

There are undoubtedly issues to iron out, such as putting squabbles and conflicts aside to provide shared care and a stable environment. Getting into a regular routine, with both parents sticking to it, is crucial, as is staying on friendly terms. The bottom line is that regular contact with and interest from both parents, encouraged by shared residency, is undoubtedly beneficial for the child.

Of course, there situations where shared parenting following a divorce won’t work or will have little effect on the child. For example, adolescent children are not always keen on the idea of having two homes, and sometimes the child may not get on well with one parent. In any situation where there is conflict or violence, it’s a given that shared parenting is simply not an option.

Tracey Miller Family Law have experience and expertise on all aspects of divorce and family law. If you need expert advice or you’re taking your first steps towards divorce, get in touch with a member of the team for a friendly chat.