Lifestyle

Do Mothers Get Child Custody More Often Than Fathers?

Published

2 years ago

December 9, 2022

Many people assume that mothers have the upper hand over fathers in custody battles, but this is not always the case.

In this article, we’ll go over why many assume that the mother always gets custody, how things are different today, and what judges really consider when granting custody rights.

Let’s get started!

Why many assume mothers get custody

In the past, mothers were almost always the primary caregivers of their children. So it made sense to give them custody (instead of giving it to fathers).

Plus, for many decades family law followed the “tender years” doctrine, which dates back to the late 19th century and states that children need their mother during their early, developmental years. Most fathers didn’t contest.

But today, there are no laws that codify a gender preference in who should gain custody over a child. And while it’s true that historically mothers were nearly always guaranteed to win custody battles, this is increasingly no longer the case.

How things are different today

Modern gender roles have evolved. Today, there are more women in the US college-educated labor force than men, and young women are out-earning young men in several US states.

Now that more women enter (and excel in) the workforce, the idea that they are always the primary caretaker no longer holds.

Some couples share equal responsibility in taking care of the kids and providing. In some households, women are even the main breadwinner. Since 1967, the share of breadwinning or co-breadwinning mothers has more than doubled.

What this means for custody battles is that fathers are often just as good, if not better, at taking care of their children. As a result, many men are being awarded full or equal split custody.

That said, the mother is often still favored in custody battles that involve very young children. For example, if a baby relies on the mother for breastfeeding, she will more than likely gain custody. However, if the infant is bottle-fed, a father may have just as good a chance at winning custody since they can do the job just as well.

It all depends on what the best interests of the child are.

What the judge considers when granting custody

To determine how to split custody rights, a judge will take many factors into consideration. Here are just a few:

Which parent is most able to provide a safe and stable environment for the child?
Which parent can provide for the child financially and physically in terms of essentials, like food, shelter, medical care, clothes, and so on?
What is the state of each parent’s mental health, criminal record, and personal habits?
Where does the child want to live?
How old is the child and do they have special physical or mental needs?
Will the child have to move and adjust to a new city, school, friends, and quality of life?
Did either parent bring false or malicious charges of child abuse against the other? Is either motivated to gain custody only to lash out at the other parent?
What is the child’s relationship like to each parent? Has either parent ever abandoned the child?

The list goes on, but you get the idea. When parents fight over custody rights, the judge weighs all the factors above to determine where the child would do best.

The final verdict

At the end of the day, child custody decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Most result in partial custody to both parents, but not always.

On average, mothers are still granted around 65% of custody time, while fathers are given around 35%.

Whether you are a father or a mother trying to win custody rights, try to maintain a civil and respectful relationship with the other parent at all times. Being vengeful will only hurt your case. Be sure to maintain a positive relationship with your child as well.

Lastly, it pays to consult an experienced family law attorney who can help you know your rights and give you the best chance of winning custody over your child.

Lifestyle

Prophet Shepherd Bushiri: Transforming Lives and Inspiring Global Change

Published

11 hours ago

March 13, 2025

Michelle Langton

In an era where the world grapples with inequality, poverty, and environmental challenges, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri has emerged as a transformative leader whose work is reshaping lives and communities. Known for his philanthropic heart, innovative vision, and spiritual guidance, Bushiri is not just a religious figure but a global changemaker. His initiatives are creating tangible improvements in education, urban development, and humanitarian aid, making him a beacon of hope for millions.

A Philanthropist with a Heart for the Vulnerable

Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s humanitarian efforts have touched countless lives, particularly in his home country of Malawi. Over the years, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and suffering. From distributing food to famine-affected regions to providing essential supplies like blankets and medical equipment to hospitals and prisons, Bushiri’s actions have brought relief to those in dire need.

In 2023, his foundation launched a groundbreaking scholarship program worth billions, designed to support over 5,000 students across Malawi. This initiative has already opened doors to quality education for thousands of young people, offering them a chance to break the cycle of poverty and build brighter futures. Bushiri’s commitment to education as a catalyst for societal change has earned him recognition from organizations like the African Youth Organisation, further solidifying his reputation as a leader who invests in the next generation.

Revolutionizing Urban Living with Goshen City

One of Bushiri’s most ambitious and celebrated projects is Goshen City, a state-of-the-art smart city currently under development in Malawi. This visionary initiative aims to create a sustainable, technologically advanced urban ecosystem that fosters innovation, community, and economic growth. Goshen City is not just a physical space; it’s a symbol of hope and progress for Malawi and a model for urban development across Africa.

In 2024, Bushiri’s groundbreaking work on Goshen City earned him the Global Visionary and Pioneer in Smart City Transformation Award at the prestigious Burj CEO Awards. This recognition highlights his ability to combine visionary thinking with practical solutions, setting a new standard for urban development in the region. By integrating technology, sustainability, and community-focused design, Bushiri is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Spiritual Leadership That Inspires Millions

As the founder and leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG), Prophet Bushiri has become a spiritual mentor to millions worldwide. His messages of hope, faith, and resilience resonate deeply with people from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams. ECG’s events, such as the Night of Wealth Transfer, have drawn thousands of international visitors, significantly boosting Malawi’s economy through spiritual tourism.

Beyond his religious ministry, Bushiri’s global influence has positioned him as a bridge between cultures and nations. His ability to connect with people across continents has enabled him to advocate for Malawi on international platforms, attracting foreign investment and fostering diplomatic partnerships that benefit the nation.

A Visionary Leader Building a Legacy of Change

Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s impact extends far beyond his immediate community. His ability to inspire action, coupled with his tangible contributions to education, healthcare, and urban development, has made him a transformative force for good. Whether through his philanthropic initiatives or his innovative projects, Bushiri continues to demonstrate that true leadership is about serving others and creating a legacy of positive change.

As Malawi and the world look to the future, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s work serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges, hope and progress are possible. His life and mission are a testament to the enduring power of compassion, innovation, and faith in building a better world for all.