Postdivorce family complexity and child problems

Abstract

Objective: This study explores the prevalence of family complexity in Joint physical custody (JPC) versus sole physical custody (SPC) and investigates the relationship between custody arrangements and children’s socioemotional problems, focusing on the moderating effect of parental repartnering. Background: JPC is increasingly common and shown to be beneficial for children. However, the rise in family complexity due to parental repartnering raises questions about JPC’s benefits for children's well-being in stepfamily settings. Method: Three waves of the New Families in the Netherlands (NFN) survey, covering ten years after separation, are used. The sample consists of parents who divorced or separated in 2010. Children's socioemotional problems were measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Linear regression models were estimated separately for boys and girls aged 4-17. Results: Descriptive statistics indicate that about half of the children live with a stepparent, with those living in JPC more likely to do so. Moreover, children in JPC showed fewer socioemotional problems than those in SPC. We did not find evidence that JPC is less beneficial for children when either parent has a new partner. Conclusion: Joint physical custody is associated with better child outcomes, and its advantages persist in stepfamily settings, indicating that parental repartnering does not weaken the effects of JPC.