A collaborative or cooperative divorce involves spouses making a commitment to work with one another to settle their disagreements. Instead of going to court to litigate, they may attend mediation, negotiate with the support of attorneys and work toward amicable resolutions for all of their outstanding disagreements.
Couples in a variety of circumstances may benefit from collaborating instead of fighting one another during divorce. Parents are among those who benefit the most from a cooperative approach to divorce.
Why cooperation benefits parents
There are two primary positive consequences of working together when divorcing as parents. First and foremost, the cooperative approach to divorce limits the damage that the children may incur because of the divorce.
Research consistently shows that higher conflict levels between parents tend to correlate with the worst social and psychological outcomes for their children. Therefore, the decision to work together and to avoid conflict can minimize the negative impact that the divorce has on children.
Additionally, parents can reduce the harm the divorce causes to their relationship with one another. They have to see each other regularly for custody exchanges and communicate frequently about their children indefinitely. They may learn better communication and conflict resolution skills. Working together to negotiate an amicable divorce can create a healthier, more positive dynamic that can have a ripple effect on the entire family.
Embracing collaborative divorce instead of fighting with a spouse may be the best option available for parents on the cusp of divorce. Parents who work together can prevent the decline of their relationship from causing lasting harm for their children.
