We’re like a broken record on this site, constantly emphasizing how important it is for children to have healthy, stable relationships with both their parents after divorce or separation. Imagine our surprise and concern when we read about a study that found that placing a strong emphasis on co-parenting can lead some abused women to think that they shouldn’t limit their abusive ex-spouse’s contact with their children:
Aside from the obvious fear of being hurt or killed, mothers feared their former husbands would harm or take the children. Nearly all of the mothers experienced some form of abuse between the time they initiated separation and finalization of the divorce.

As hard as co-parenting is in general, co-parenting when one or both of parents are alcoholics is a whole other level. I found this discussion of the subject here, and thought perhaps it could be of use to others. In case it matters to you that …