If you are a parent in Texas and are going through a divorce, figuring out custody is probably high on your priority list. While you may think you are the better parent and want to fight for sole custody, it is important to take a step back and look at the benefits to both your child and you when the court decides on joint custody. While joint may not be the best in every situation, it is the preferred method for most families.
Phys.org discusses that joint custody has a positive influence on a child’s general well-being and development because there is more time spent with both parents. Research shows that children of all ages who split time between both parents fare just as well as those who live with married parents. Their physical and emotional health as well as their social behavior is better than that of children who live mainly with one parent. Children who live jointly between both caretakers tend to build healthier relationships as they grow older.
While there are numerous benefits for children, Very Well Family focuses on some benefits for the parents that you may want to consider. These include:
- More time to focus on obtaining a degree or getting ahead in your career
- More time to focus on your needs
- More freedom and time to date
- You share the jobs of creating rules and disciplining
- Less money you have to spend on everyday items and activities
- More appreciation of your child and vice versa
