Shared Parenting Outcomes
Research on shared parenting examines how children fare in arrangements where both parents remain actively involved after separation. This body of research explores a range of emotional, behavioral, and long-term outcomes across different family structures and circumstances.
Findings in this area vary and are shaped by many factors, including family dynamics, levels of conflict, and how parenting arrangements function in practice. Rather than pointing to a single model that fits all families, the research reflects patterns and associations observed across diverse contexts.
Child Adjustment in Joint-Custody Versus Sole-Custody Arrangements: A Meta-Analytic Review
Bauserman, R. (2002). Journal of Family Psychology, 16(1), 91–102.
This meta-analysis compared children in joint physical or legal custody with those in sole-custody arrangements. Across studies, children in joint custody showed better emotional, behavioral, and family-relationship outcomes.
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Children in joint custody were better adjusted than those in sole custody across multiple measures.
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Their adjustment was similar to children in intact families.
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Benefits of joint custody appeared even when there was some parental conflict.
Custody and Parenting Time: Links to Family Relationships and Well-Being After Divorce.
Fabricius, W. V., Braver, S. L., Diaz, P., & Velez, C. E. (2010)
This chapter reviews how parenting time after divorce influences children’s well-being and relationships with each parent. It finds that children benefit when they maintain strong relationships with both parents, and that shared parenting arrangements generally support better long-term outcomes.
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Children with meaningful time in each household tend to be more satisfied with their parenting arrangements.
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Joint custody and shared parenting are associated with fewer emotional and behavioral adjustment problems.
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Children benefit from rich relationships with both residential and nonresidential parents.
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Active involvement from both parents supports stronger long-term bonds and healthier adjustment.