When Texan parents get a divorce, it’s up to them to decide how they want to raise their child. While each situation is different and requires its own unique approach, some studies have shown that joint custody might be a better option in regard to the health and happiness of the child.
Good Therapy suggests that the health of a child is improved by joint custody. This includes issues like insomnia, nausea, headaches, changes in appetite, and other psychosomatic symptoms. As shown by the study they pulled from, children of divorce generally had worse mental and physical health than children whose parents were together. However, the children of joint custody generally appeared to have fewer difficulties than other children with divorced parents.
Good Housekeeping also highlights the psychological benefits of joint custody that are seen in this same study, among other possibly applicable benefits. Less stress is reported in children of joint custody divorces. There’s also a lower rate of children who report problems with anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues that are commonly exacerbated by a traumatic event like divorce. This tends to go against the general conception that having to divide time between two houses would be more stressful on a child.
Joint custody may not work for every couple simply because no two couples are the same, and this arrangement may be out of the question for some. However, if it’s feasible, a divorcing couple may want to consider looking into it if only for the benefits and stability it could provide their child.