Finding yourself in the middle of a dispute over child custody can generate intense emotions. Whether you worry about how the outcome of the dispute will affect your relationship with your children or you have concerns about your child’s other parent, it is pivotal to put your best foot forward and firmly strive to protect your child’s best interests.
If you are a father, you might worry about your ability to secure a positive outcome. However, it is helpful to go over data on custodial fathers, stay positive and ensure that you take the best approach.
Statistics show that more dads have become custodial parents
The U.S. Census Bureau published a report on custodial parents, and this data draws attention to an increase in the number of custodial fathers. During 1994, custodial fathers represented 16% of all custodial parents in the U.S. In 2018, this increased to 20.1%. With fathers accounting for one out of every five custodial parents in the U.S., this data shows that courts do not always award custody to the mother.
Working through a custody battle
Whether you are a father or a mother, a custody dispute could become very contentious and unsettling. Your child’s other parent could falsely accuse you of wrongdoing and the experience could cause overwhelming stress and emotional pain.
If possible, it could help to focus on reducing tension and working toward an outcome in a more amicable manner. However, this is not always an option, and you should also make sure that you stand up for yourself and an outcome that is in your child’s best interests.