Shared parenting and father involvement after divorce in Denmark

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Family Studies
• Legal Studies

Background:

• Scandinavian countries lead in father involvement and gender equality.
• Danish research on shared parenting is underrepresented internationally.
• Previous studies highlight high father involvement globally, but lack Danish data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overview the rise in father involvement in Denmark since the 1960s.
• To examine the increase in shared parenting in recent decades.
• To analyze Danish laws and guidelines concerning post-divorce parenting practices.

Main Methods:

• Historical overview of father involvement trends.
• Analysis of Danish legislation and ministerial guidelines.
• Comparison of Danish practices with international research and Danish scientific findings.

Main Results:

• Danish guidelines and practices exhibit reservations towards shared parenting and substantial father involvement.
• These reservations are not supported by a significant number of scientists or the majority of evidence.
• Societal transition towards shared parenting has largely occurred voluntarily, despite official stances.

Conclusions:

• Danish law and guidelines may hinder post-divorce father involvement.
• Updated legislation and ministerial guidelines are needed to align with societal trends.
• Politicians should consider policy changes to ensure children benefit from high father involvement post-divorce.