The number of communication tools available in today’s technologically advanced society has increased exponentially. The University of Missouri has released a study that explores how the many communication options available to parents who are ex-partners affect the parent-child relationship.
The study reports on the frequency, quality and content of email, text, phone and chat communications among 42 divorced families and how these tools contribute to or detract from the quality of the parent-child relationship. In general the study showed that the use of these methodologies varied widely, depending on the level of hostility between the parents.
Among parents who reported an amicable relationship with their ex-spouse, parents used all forms of communication to:
Parents who felt more hostile toward the ex-spouse reported that the low-contact methods such as email and text enabled them to communicate without any emotional fallout. Messages were limited to communicating technical content, like:
In every case, parents used technological tools to document agreements and maintain records of conversations regarding the child’s schedule, whereabouts and welfare. All parents agreed that the advantage of communicating via tools that enable parents to control personal information and maintain boundaries proved helpful, and in some cases allowed a greater flow of information regarding shared parenting.
If you are separating or divorcing, speak to a child custody attorney about communicating with your ex. Your attorney can help you employ the many tools available to today’s parents. Call the Buffalo, NY Law Offices of Randy S. Margulis at 716.886.9600 or contact us online.