A representative survey commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs in 2024 shows that separating parents benefit significantly from counseling and mediation services. Prognos AG published a new study on March 7, 2024, which it conducted on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs. This study confirms the high effectiveness and quality of counseling services for separating parents.
New study commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs
The survey, which incorporates the perspectives of 1,030 separated parents as well as 920 professionals from counseling practice, also reveals a growing need for digital information and counseling services. Furthermore, it confirms the importance of separation counseling as a support tool for parents, for example, in finding balanced solutions regarding custody arrangements. The study provides crucial insights into the counseling needs of separated parents and offers a comprehensive overview of current counseling practices. It shows which services parents utilize and what positive effects these counseling sessions have.
Digital resources on the topic of "separation" offer guidance
Overall, 44 percent of separated parents have used a service tailored to their situation in connection with divorce or separation. Internet research plays a major role in the search for counseling services. Almost 90 percent of parents initially seek information online. It is crucial that separated parents find good resources that offer guidance and initial support, as well as a link to in-person counseling.
In addition to the STARK platform and the family portal, , the online advice guide of DAJEB (German Association for Youth and Marriage Counseling) and the bke advice center search (Federal Conference for Educational Counseling) offer important support for families.
Counsellinguing is important support for families
Furthermore, information on the content and structure of counseling services was collected. The results underscore the need for target group-specific development of these services, particularly for families with diverse educational backgrounds. Moreover, it becomes clear that topics such as conflict resolution in counseling cases and considering children's perspectives are essential aspects for training and professional development.
The vast majority of separated parents surveyed (81 percent) are satisfied with the services offered and rate them as helpful. Counseling or mediation has a positive impact on the quality of the parents' relationship after separation. Separated parents who have sought counseling more frequently report improved relationships with each other afterward.
Further information: Shared custody of children after separation
The brochure provides an overview
"Co-parenting after separation" is the topic of the report published today by the Scientific Advisory Board for Family Affairs at the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ). The report provides a comprehensive overview of separated families in Germany. An increasing number of parents wish to share custody of their children both before and after a separation. Therefore, the report focuses on families practicing shared custody (both asymmetrical and symmetrical). International comparisons illustrate how shared custody is practiced elsewhere and where reforms are needed.
The publication is available as a brochure entitled "Co-parenting after separation."
Further information and helpful websites:
- STARK – Mastering conflict and separation: Everyday help, advice and conflict resolution
. Mastering conflict and separation: Everyday help, advice and conflict resolution from experts in psychology, education, law and economics on the topics of relationship crisis, separation and divorce. - Advice, information, and events on the topic of "separation/divorce" in the city of Bremen.
Relationships don't always run smoothly. Counseling for couples in crisis and conflict situations, information on separation and divorce, and support services for the period afterward can be helpful. - bke Advice Center
Search: Search for educational and family advice centers in your area. - Study: Counselling in cases of separation
– Counselling structures and needs in the context of separation
Source: Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ), press release , March 7, 2024