A recent report finds Kentucky ranks nearly last among states for shared parenting standards after divorce. The National Parents Organization released a report card Thursday ranking states based on child custody statutes and employment of shared custody following divorce or separation.
Kentucky received a D minus in the report, a score above only New York and Rhode Island. Tennessee received a D in the report, and Illinois a C plus.
The report Chair of National Parents Organization, Doctor Ned Holstein said most states are behind the times in child custody rulings.
“In the first eight months of 2014, three separate, highly regarded reviews of decades of child development research have concluded that shared parenting is best for children," Holstein said. "Our report is intended to take the conversation one step further by assessing which states are embracing this knowledge and which states are continuing to rely on precedents set in the 50s.”
National Executive Director of National Parents Organization Rita Fuerst Adams said shared parenting should be a focus in custody hearings.
“Shared parenting gives children what they most want and need – the constant loving care of both parents,” Adams said. “For this reason, our courts should be striving to provide children as much time with both parents as possible after divorce or separation. However, as this report demonstrates, far too many states are missing the mark when it comes to shared parenting, parental equality and supporting the best interests of children.”
Research Team Leader Don Hubin, Ph.D. said he is hopeful the results will influence court decisions.
“We hope that this study, coupled with research that demonstrates the many benefits of shared parenting, will encourage a new dialogue and will motivate our state legislatures and family courts to reexamine the impact they are having on our children,” Hubin said.
