Recent polling data shows overwhelming support for equal shared parenting in Connecticut

The most recent round of National Parents Organization (NPO) shared parenting polling shows that voters in Connecticut express overwhelming support for shared parenting. Ninety-six percent of those who were polled believe it is in the child's best interest to have as much time as possible with each parent in cases of separation or divorce. The majority of individuals polled are also willing to let this issue influence how they vote in elections.

NPO commissioned this survey, conducted independently by Researchscape International. Gathering this type of data is part of NPO’s ongoing commitment to carry out shared parenting research throughout the United States to further education, advocacy, and legislative efforts for equal shared parenting. This poll was commissioned to measure the attitudes and beliefs of adults in Connecticut concerning shared parenting when parents live apart. In Connecticut, the polling results were overwhelmingly supportive toward equal shared parenting. The vast majority of respondents reported that they would be more likely to vote for a politician who supports shared parenting legislation.

 The NPO Connecticut Shared Parenting Survey, conducted over a five-day period in August 2021, had a sample size of 528 respondents that was representative of Connecticut adults with respect to race, gender, age, income, and political alignment. The data provides an estimated credibility interval of plus or minus 6%, according to Researchscape International. The polling of the respondents concluded that in instances of separation or divorce:

• 96% of those in Connecticut believe it is in the child's best interest to have as much time as possible with each parent.

• 93% of those in Connecticut expressed a commitment to vote their beliefs being "more likely to vote for a candidate who supports children spending equal or nearly equal time with each parent ...when both parents are fit and willing to be parents."

• 85% of those in Connecticut indicated they would support a change in Connecticut law that awards children as much time as possible with each parent after divorce or separation.

• 84% of those in Connecticut surveyed believe that when there is conflict between parents, awarding sole custody to one parent increases conflict.

•  81% of those in Connecticut believe that allowing qualifying parents to agree to a parenting plan without hiring lawyers, filing any motions, or arguing in front of a judge is in the child’s best interest.

• 91% of those in Connecticut believe that both parents should have equal rights and responsibilities following divorce or separation.

 The results of this shared parenting poll are essential in improving the lives and well-being of children in Connecticut who are affected by the separation or divorce of their parents. As reported in NPO’s Shared Parenting Report Card, Connecticut received some of the lowest marks in the nation when it comes to equal shared parenting legislation. This research project specifically measures states’ statutory provisions promoting shared parenting. In the most recent report card from 2019, Connecticut was given a ‘D-’ grade for several reasons, including:

• Connecticut has no statutory preference for, or presumption of, shared parenting (joint legal custody and shared physical custody) for temporary or final orders.

• Connecticut statutes do not explicitly provide for shared parenting during temporary orders.

 Despite the negatives, Connecticut was noted for having one positive in the 2019 Shared Parenting Report Card. Connecticut specifically permits, but does not require, courts to consider a “friendly parent” factor in determining a parenting order. While it is not ideal legislation, it is something that can be considered a step in the right direction. As stated in Connecticut General Statute 46B-56, courts are to consider “the willingness and ability of each parent to facilitate and encourage such continuing parent-child relationship between the child and the other parent as is appropriate, including compliance with any court orders.”

It is clear that there is a lack of shared parenting laws and a lack of support for equal parenting by the state’s legislature. However, it is apparent from this recent round of shared parenting polling that adults in Connecticut support this type of legislation. The polling shows  that these individuals would likely support political candidates who align with their views on this issue. NPO will use the results of this shared parenting poll to get the attention of current Connecticut lawmakers, political candidates, and government officials. The nonprofit, along with its many volunteers based in Connecticut, continue to raise awareness about the benefits of shared parenting. Advocates hope that this data will put pressure on state legislators in Connecticut to enact laws that truly promote the best interest of children.

Connecticut joined five other states, New York, New Jersey, West Virginia, Georgia, and Washington, in the latest round of polling. As of November 2021, NPO has commissioned shared parenting polling in 19 states. NPO is working to fund shared parenting polls in all 50 states. To help support the efforts of polling the remaining states, click here to donate.

 To learn more about NPO, click here to visit the organization’s website. You can also help to support its mission and vision by donating, fundraising, volunteering, and advocating.

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 The overarching goal of National Parents Organization (NPO) is to promote shared parenting by educating parents, divorce professionals, and legislators and by reforming family courts and laws in every state. NPO focuses on advocacy and research leading to systemic reform of the family courts. The organization does not provide legal aid or advice on individual cases.