Technology and Divorce

 Posted on September 11, 2012 in Child Custody

A recent study at the University of Missouri examined the increasing trend of divorcing couples of using texting, emails and social media as a way of communicating with each other about their children. Not surprisingly, the results show that when couples use this technology in a negative way, it's the children who suffer emotionally.

Lawrence Ganong, a professor of human development and family studies at MU, and his team interviewed 49 divorced couples, who were parents together, about their relationships with their former partner. For couples who had a cooperative relationship, the use of technology proved to be a benefit for communication and co-parenting. According to a report in the Daily News, some parents even came up with some unique and productive ideas, such as utilizing online calendars to share the children's schedule and activities. This proved to be a good way in ensuring that both parents were aware of events in the child's life such as parent-teacher conferences, sporting events, play dates etc.

But for parents who were embroiled in hostile co-parenting relationships, communicating through technology can also be used to manipulate and withhold access to the children. Some parents admitted pretending they never received emails from the other parent. When used correctly, Email can actually benefit parents who have a hard time dealing with each other face to face. Electronic communication allows each party to communicate important information with each other without the need to confront. It also serves as a record of the exchange, however both parties need to be honest and communicate.

Even if you and your soon to be ex-spouse communicate effectively with each other, it's important to retain an experienced DuPage County divorce attorney to represent you during divorce and custody proceedings. If you and your former spouse share children and are having trouble with communication, our family law attorneys in DuPage County can help you draw up legal documents regarding rights concerning child custody and visitation, child support, religious upbringing, location, etc. We will listen to your concerns and help you to come to the best arrangement for your family.