Anonymous wrote:Why does it have to be mental illness if a mother wants the children to live with their father?? While for men it's the default to let the mother keep them.
In some cultures, this is the default custody: father keeps child. In case of boys, it can be a very good thing. I know of several examples it's worked well.
In my case, it wasn't my choice but its worked for everyone. I was alone in grad school with heavy debt, no time and very overwhelmed. the kids lived with XH for 3 years then spent time with my parents during a transition... Now they're older they've chosen to live with their dad and I visit. Especially for my son who had behavioral problems its been great. Dad is more extroverted, gets involved with other parents & activities, which I just wouldn't be good at.
My cousin is recently divorced (dad) and he has custody (3 girls). The divorce was amicable, and his ex sees the girls every other weekend and I think every Weds night or something. This was her choice - she thought 50-50 was too disruptive for the kids, and husband had more flexible hours (professor) than she (surgeon). He also had his parents nearby (10 mins) so they could come help out as needed.
Sometimes choosing to not be the primary parent is an act of selflessness. She was (is) a great mom. She just doesn't believe in the joint custody model.