How Children of Divorce Benefit From Joint-Custody Arrangements

Going through a divorce is difficult enough on its own, but if you are going through a divorce and have children with the person you are divorcing, it can prove to be even more excruciating. Going from having your child sleeping under the same roof every night to sharing custody over that child with your former partner typically involves a period of adjustment. However, it may help you adjust faster if you recognize the ways in which your joint-custody arrangement may benefit your son or daughter.

Just how can joint-custody arrangements benefit children whose parents have divorced? According to Time, a study involving about 150,000 youths with divorced parents who were either 12 or 15 years of age shined some light on the subject. Per study results, children of divorce whose parents have joint-custody arrangements typically fare better than their peers with divorced parents, but who live with just one of them, in the following ways.

They Are Often Physically Healthier.

According to study results, kids whose parents split up but who spend time living in both parents’ homes, are less likely to report experiencing stomachaches or headaches than other children of divorce. They are also statistically less likely to experience appetite issues than their peers who live with only one parent.

They Experience Fewer Psychosomatic Problems.

Children with divorced parents but who live with both parents at least part of the time are also less likely to report experiencing a wide range of emotional issues than their peers who live with just one parent. They are less likely to report feelings of sadness, for example, and they are also less likely to report feeling tense, anxious, or overwhelmed.

Having to give up some of your time with your child is probably not something you take lightly, and it may not be what you envisioned for your life when you decided to have that child in the first place. However, sharing custody with your ex may have a lasting and positive impact on your son or daughter’s growth, development and overall well-being.