By Lon Loveless | Contributor
Changing Parental Roles in Modern Families
Parents often take on various responsibilities, and this can be especially challenging when job flexibility or travel commitments are involved. Primary earners may find it difficult to engage in traditional “homemaker” tasks, such as attending children’s appointments or participating in extracurricular activities and school events.
The Shift in Parenting Dynamics
The roles of parents have evolved over time. The concept of fathers being the sole breadwinners is becoming increasingly rare. In the 1970s, around 50 percent of households featured fathers as the only financial providers, but this figure has dropped to below 30 percent in recent years. In fact, in 70 percent of households with children under 18, both parents now work.
Increased Involvement of Fathers
Over the last five decades, fathers have become significantly more active in child care. For instance, fathers spent an average of eight hours per week on child care in 2016, while mothers dedicated about 14 hours weekly. This is a marked increase from the 1960s when fathers contributed only around four hours per week.
The Importance of Involved Fathers
Engaged fathers play a crucial role in the healthy development of children. They offer different parenting styles, methods of communication, forms of play, discipline approaches, and values, all of which contribute to the well-rounded growth of their children.
Co-parenting in Stable Relationships
In stable partnerships, parents typically agree on their respective roles and share responsibilities like school drop-offs and sports practices.
Challenges Post-Separation or Divorce
When parents experience separation or divorce, their living arrangements change, which can complicate decision-making. Factors such as the children’s ages and genders, their relationships with each parent, living locations, work schedules, schooling, and custody arrangements impact the roles of separated parents.
Legal Preferences for Co-parenting
Like many states, Texas courts favor both parents being involved in raising their children. However, this can be complicated by conflicts and differing opinions. With the divorce rate around 50 percent, it’s vital for parents to prioritize their children and share responsibilities, despite their differences.
Adapting Roles After Divorce
A father’s role can shift dramatically after divorce as he often becomes more invested in parenting. Many divorced fathers now take on a greater share of responsibilities than in the past, aided by technology that allows for remote work, enabling both parents to attend their children’s activities.
Custody Considerations in Family Law
The notion that one parent has an advantage in custody cases is no longer valid. Each case is unique, and various factors influence custody decisions. Perspectives on custody will differ based on each parent’s objectives. Those navigating divorce should consult with an experienced family law attorney to address the many challenges they may encounter.
Editor’s Note: Lon Loveless is a Family Law attorney with the boutique firm Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP. He is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is a member of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists. He can be reached at www.ondafamilylaw.com.
