Theoretical Approach to Understanding the Factors Influencing Divorcing Parents' Readiness to Co-parent

Abstract

Divorce is a common experience and can have negative outcomes for parents and children. Children of divorce are at higher risk for mental and physical health issues. The strongest predictor of child resiliency post-divorce is how well their parents manage their divorce. Subsequently 46 of the 50 states currently have mandates surrounding co-parenting (i.e., continual involvement of parents post-divorce for the benefit of their child) programs; however, little is known about the specific mechanisms that facilitate a parent�s readiness to engage in positive co-parenting behaviors. This study used a qualitative design with phenomenological and modified grounded theories in order to understand and create a tentative theory for what affects a parent�s readiness to co-parent. Parents reported that an increased ability to recognize what they can control in their co-parenting relationship and the paradigm shift they experience as a parent post-divorce facilitate their readiness to co-parent. Furthermore, parents who attended a co-parenting class reported that the class facilitator�s ability to engage the class, the group dynamic of the class, and the content of the co-parenting class facilitated changes in their perceptions about their co-parenting relationship.