Post‐separation parental conflict and father–child physical contact: A bidirectional study

Abstract

The first goal of this longitudinal study was to examine the strength and direction of the relations between post‐separation parental conflict (PSPC) and father–child physical contact, as reported by the mother, at the time of separation (Time 1) and in the following 2 years (Time 2). A cross‐lagged panel model was conducted with a sample of 198 parents of children from 3 to 8 years old at the time of separation. The results indicated that PSPC at Time 1 predicted a lower frequency of father–child physical contact at Time 2, whereas the inverse relationship was not found. The strength and direction of the relations did not vary as a function of the level of the moderators. The results help us to identify priority targets in the development of policies and treatment programs for separated families.