PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS INFLUENCING CHILD CUSTODY AMONG DIVORCED PARENTS

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the psychosocial factors influencing child custody among divorced couples in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state. The research was conducted in Yenagoa and 385 respondents were sampled using the simple random sampling technique. The study used survey research design with a correlational method. Research instrument thus used was structured questionnaire while the validity of it was ascertained using content validity method and reliability was found using the internal consistency method. The study developed four research objectives and four research hypotheses were developed and tested. The research hypotheses were tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC). The study reviews psychosocial factors that may influence the custodial and access arrangements for children during divorce. Custodial arrangements for children following the divorce of their parents are researched. The study factors to consider in determining the custodial arrangement that provides for the best interests of children include depression, financial capability, affection and parenting knowledge factors. It is recommended that all of these factors be considered in drafting a custodial agreement that will serve the best interest of children following a marital and family breakup or remarriage. Also, it is recommended that elements such as child wishes, parents’ mental and physical health, child’s preference, child-parent relationship and work obligation should be considered among others in determining the child custody in divorce cases.