Consequences of the Sex of the Custodial Parent on Three Indicators of Adolescents' Well-Being

Abstract

The well-being of the children is a central argument in custody decisions, therefore the effects of the sex of the custodial parent on three indicators of the well-being of adolescents in Belgium (N = 713) are examined. By using stepwise analyses of variance (with MCA) the differences are tested between adolescents (boys and girls) in mother or father custodial arrangements with regard to three dimensions of well-being, other family characteristics being equal. In terms of locus of control and self-esteem, there is no difference. But there is a significant difference in terms of hopelessness. Additionally, the difference in perceived appreciation and maturity is controlled for; but these cannot explain the difference in hopelessness. Important is that the lesser perceived appreciation in father households has no percussions on the analyzed dimensions of well-being.