Perspectives of Adults Who Experienced Joint Physical Custody as Children

Date of Conferral

10-30-2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Michael Brewer

Abstract

The purpose and design of this qualitative study explored the lived experiences and perceptions of adults who spent time in joint physical custody arrangements for a minimum of 5 years as children and explored the research question about if adults who spent time in joint physical custody as children report their perceptions of it as a success. With more than 50% of children being raised by parents who are not married and custody often being determined by the courts, this research helped to gain a better understanding of how 50/50, or joint physical custody, was seen by the children who experienced it. The study used policy feedback theory as a framework. This theory recognizes that policy analysis is an integral part of shaping new policies. Semistructured interviews were conducted with eight adults (aged 25-54) who had been in 50/50 custody schedules for 5 to 15 years during childhood. Data analysis revealed two primary themes related to participants' custody experiences: challenges faced and benefits gained. Overall, participants perceived joint physical custody arrangements positively, highlighting the importance of coparenting quality over logistics like distance between homes. These findings suggested that joint custody can successfully meet children's needs across diverse family circumstances. Practical and policy implications included facilitating cooperation and parallel parenting, tailoring schedules to developmental needs, and supporting joint custody norms, all of which have an important impact on positive social change for families.

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