Abstract

Previous research has indicated that authoritative parenting is positively related to children’s well-being. This research has, however, primarily focused on parenting of married parents or divorced mothers. This article contributes to the literature by investigating parenting styles of divorced fathers in different custodial arrangements and their influence on children’s well-being. Based on a subsample (N = 684) of the multi-actor dataset ‘Divorce in Flanders’, in which married as well as divorced parents and children are included, we first compare parenting styles of residential fathers, fathers in joint custody and non-residential fathers. Second, the relationship between parenting styles of divorced fathers and children’s self-esteem and satisfaction with life is examined. Third, we investigate if this relationship differs according to custodial arrangements. Results indicate that non-residential fathers are more permissive and uninvolved. Still, authoritative fathers in different custodial arrangements can have a positive influence on children’s self-esteem and satisfaction with life.

How to Cite:

Bastaits, K. & Ponnet, K. & Mortelmans, D., (2012) “Doen gescheiden vaders ertoe?: de impact van opvoedingsstijlen van gescheiden vaders op het welbevinden van het kind”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 33(3-4), 239–266. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86804