When a married couple divorces, there is a legal authority that makes decisions in the child’s life with regard to which parent will take on a primary role with the child. This refers to child custody, and the court takes into account various life issues of the child such as health, education and religion. Both parents usually share in the decision when creating custody agreement for the child, although there are instances when a consensus model is followed based on the specific concerns that must be addressed.
Divorce Effects on Children
When parents separate, a disagreement or conflict may occur between them. The issues that arise can have a significant impact on the child. One of these concerns includes the place of residence of the child, as well as the amount of time that the child will have with each parent. The main point of custody is to affect the decision-making authority and the time that is spent between each parent and the child. There may also be an instance when one of the parents may seek custody and wish to have the child live with him or her for a greater amount of time. These, of course, are issues that will have to be settled.
Options and Considerations
When both parents have come to terms on the main issues that affect their child’s life, or in an instance when they no longer have any concerns about the other parent’s judgment, joint custody is often the primary option. In this case, both of the parents may have an equal say in the decisions regarding their child’s future. The decisions are made by consensus, and in certain instances, any settlements maybe made by agreeing to the judgment of the other parent. The primary consideration is how their decisions can positively affect the future and well-being of the child.
