Stability and change in children's residence arrangements after parental separation
Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies
Published online on May 02, 2026
Abstract
["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjectives\nThis study examines stability and change in children's residence arrangements after parental separation in Norway using detailed categories of residence arrangements.\n\n\nBackground\nMost studies use broad classifications of residence arrangements. Finer distinctions may offer better insight into the dynamics of postseparation arrangements.\n\n\nMethod\nThe sample comprises 800 children from 504 separated families recruited from family counselling offices in Norway. Residence arrangements are categorized into two (shared and sole residence), three (symmetric shared, asymmetric shared and sole residence), and four groups (symmetric shared, asymmetric shared, extended sole, and limited sole). Descriptive analyses assess change over two occasions (approximately 1.75 years). Logistic regression models test factors associated with change.\n\n\nResults\nShared residence is more stable than sole residence, but different categorizations lead to different conclusions. Symmetric shared residence (50–50) is most common and stable. Children whose parents have repartnered are less likely to change arrangements.\n\n\nConclusion\nSymmetric shared residence appears to be a stable and prevalent postseparation arrangement, contrasting with earlier studies that emphasized instability.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings may reflect broader social changes, including increased father involvement, more mothers in the workforce, and more supports for shared parenting. More granular categorizations of residence arrangements enhance our understanding of postseparation parenting time.\n\n"]