Divorce can be a challenge for families as couples make the choice to separate. A wide variety of situations can bring two spouses to this life-changing event. Georgia parents going through the divorce process not only have to think about their wants and needs, but also those of their children. The first step in easing the transition for the kids is deciding on a child custody arrangement.
For a large number of years, mothers were granted sole or primary custody of the children when there was a divorce. However, as time and roles in society have changed, so have the statistics. In cases of sole or primary custody, the non-custodial parent often would not be able to spend time with his or her children. These parents were supposed to pay child support and left to defend themselves on their lack of involvement in the life of the child.
For one man, this one-sided form of custody has kept him from being there for his four children. While he admits to lacking maturity initially, this father desires the chance to be a part of his kids’ lives. After noticing the trend of fathers being kept from their children, a program has been created that allows fathers the opportunity to be a dad. Seeing how children thrive when both parents are present in their lives is undeniable.
The child’s need for both parents cannot be ignored and is the reason for an increase in the number of joint-custody and co-parenting arrangements. While working together may seem unfeasible for divorcing spouses, it is quite beneficial for the children involved. Couples in Georgia looking into the divorce or child custody process cannot solely focus on their feelings, but have to look to their children’s futures.
Source: ksla.com, “Family First: Fighting for Fatherhood“, Charisse Gibson, July 3, 2014