The dissolution of a family through divorce is difficult for all involved, especially the children. Once parents announce that they will be separating or divorcing, a child’s world often crumbles. The stability and security they have known is taken away from them and a new family structure must be developed. This can be a very stressful time in the lives of these kids, but a new study finds that there is a way to reduce the stress for the children.
A recent study published in The Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health reports that couples who share joint custody have children who suffer the least amount of stress. The study looked at 150,000 children between 12 and 15 years of age. Sixty-nine percent of those in the study were children living at home with both parents, 19% spent their time living between both parents, and the remaining 13% of those studied lived with one parent following a divorce. Researchers in the study examined variables such as difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, appetite issues, and physical symptoms of stress, including headaches, stomachaches, dizziness, and feelings of depression or sadness.
The results of the study showed that children fare well when the relationship between parents is amicable, and time is spent living between both parents. Those children living in nuclear family situations with both parents at home did the best in terms of emotional, social, and academic health. In divorced families, those children who routinely spent time living between both parent households showed remarkably less stress than those who lived primarily with one parent.
Researchers concluded that children are best served when the relationship between the parents focuses on their well being. Routines help build a sense of security and safety, so when the parents establish a predictable and consistent routine in sharing joint custody, the child benefits. Though it is not always possible for this type of arrangement due to relocation of one parent, it is vital to the child’s emotional and physical health that a relationship with the non-custodial parent is encouraged and maintained as much as possible.
Towson Child Custody Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles LLC Help Clients Establish Successful Joint Custody Arrangements
Divorce is never easy and when children are involved, emotions run high. The team of highly-skilled and knowledgeable Towson child custody lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles LLC has over 30 years experience handling some of the most complex divorce and child custody situations. If you or someone you know is considering a divorce, call the dedicated team of Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles LLC at 443-589-0150 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation today.
Our office is conveniently located in Hunt Valley, Maryland and serves clients throughout Baltimore County, Harford County, Carroll County and Howard County, as well as residents of Towson, Bel Air, Columbia, Westminster and Essex.
