Shared residence among parents living apart in Norway

Abstract

Over the last decade there has been a dramatic increase in shared residence for children among parents living apart in Norway, and a related shift away from mother sole custody. Currently, 3 in 10 children in separated families have shared residence, compared to less than 10% at the beginning of the century. This likely reflects several factors, including more symmetrical parenting practices in intact families in Norway and policy measures that promote a more equal division of practical care and economic provision among separated parents. Shared residence is most widespread among those from high socioeconomic backgrounds. Parents with shared residence generally report better cooperation and less conflict than sole custody parents and also more gender-equal caring practices prior to separation.