Shared custody after a divorce or separation is the standard in most cases. However, every set of parents has different dynamics and needs. There are many ways for parents who share custody to do so effectively.
Two of the most common arrangements involve either co-parenting or parallel parenting. What separates these two approaches to shared custody?
Co-parenting is about mutual support
Those attempting to co-parent try to put their relationship issues aside to focus on what their children need. Co-parenting requires regular communication and a cooperative approach to raising the children. Co-parents communicate regularly and try to be flexible with one another to keep the relationship as amicable as possible. While co-parenting may be the ideal outcome, it is not realistic in every situation.
Parallel parenting limits conflict
Parallel parenting is a completely different approach to shared parental responsibilities. It involves intentionally limiting interactions between parents. Like parallel lines, they very rarely cross paths with one another.
Parallel parenting generally involves minimal face-to-face interactions during custody exchanges and limited communication. Typically, the parenting plan includes far more details about legal authority, parental responsibilities and parenting time issues to help minimize the need to communicate.
Those dealing with the aftermath of domestic violence or other challenging circumstances may employ a parallel parenting strategy to prevent disputes and keep things as peaceful as possible for the sake of the children.
Learning more about different approaches to shared parenting rights and responsibilities can help people develop a workable plan for the future. Parallel parenting can be a valuable option in scenarios where cooperative co-parenting isn’t realistic and/or advisable.
ES