Am J Psychiatry 1979; 136:1540-1544
Copyright © 1979 by American Psychiatric Association
Joint custody: solution or illusion?
EP Benedek and RS Benedek
Although the phrase "joint custody" is in popular use, the concept lacks
standard definitin; parents who express interest in this form of
disposition have widely differing objectives and expectations. The authors
discuss the need for determining the primary objectives of the parties
involved and for exploring the potential for achieving these through joint
custody as well as through other alternatives. They examine the benefits of
joint custody as well as the risks engendered by this type of arrangement
and make a number of specific recommendations. They conclude that joint
custody should be considered and explored, together with other available
alternatives, and awarded only in appropriate cases.
