Factors Contributing to Quality Coparenting

Abstract

Cognitive, contextual, and perceptual factors contributing to quality coparenting were examined in a survey of 135 respondents (54 males, 81 females) who were separated/divorced former partners coparenting minor-aged children. Respondents indicated, for the most part, a coparenting atmosphere of anger and hostility. The regression analysis indicated that satisfaction with financial child support arrangements (Beta = .219, p= .041), less hostile divorce proceedings (Beta = -.291,p= .003) and forgiveness (Beta = .319, p =.003) were the strongest predictors of quality coparenting. Emerging conflict issues between former partners were regarding children and finances, specifically access to the children and child financial support. These findings have implications for family policy which could assist with facilitating a civil and cooperative coparenting environment.

Key Words:

• Coparenting
• quality coparenting
• family policy
• interparental conflict
• separation
• divorce