Stability and change in children's residence arrangements after parental separation

ABSTRACT Objectives This study examines stability and change in children's residence arrangements after parental separation in Norway using detailed categories of residence arrangements. Background Most studies use broad classifications of residence arrangements. Finer distinctions may offer better insight into the dynamics of postseparation arrangements. Method The 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. Results Shared 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. Conclusion Symmetric shared residence appears to be a stable and prevalent postseparation arrangement, contrasting with earlier studies that emphasized instability. Implications These 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.