Child Adjustment in Joint Physical Custody Versus Sole Custody: A Meta-Analytic Review. Issue 5 (3rd July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baude, Amandine; Pearson, Jessica; Drapeau, Sylvie
• Is Part Of: Journal of divorce & remarriage. Volume 57:Issue 5(2016)
• Page Start: 338
• Page End: 360
• Publication Date: 2016-07-03
• Subjects: child adjustment -- divorce -- joint physical custody -- sole custody; Divorce -- Law and legislation -- United States -- Periodicals; Divorce -- Periodicals; Remarriage -- Periodicals; 306.89
• DOI: 10.1080/10502556.2016.1185203
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1050-2556

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A meta-analysis was conducted to compare the adjustment of children in joint and sole custody. The studies included here defined joint custody as a proportion of time spent by children in each home ranging from a one-third time division (70%/30%) to an equal share (50%/50%). The overall results of the 19 selected studies revealed better outcomes for children in joint custody, with a weak effect size ( d = .109). Moreover, this association was moderated by the amount of time that children spent with their 2 parents. Other moderation analyses conducted on the methodological characteristics of the studies and the characteristics of the samples were not significant. The descriptive data drawn from this meta-analysis were used to identify the studies' limitations. Recommendations for future research in the area are discussed.