Fathers' child custody issues have become a topic of increasing interest to men's rights groups in the U.S. over the past couple of decades. Public opinion and the priorities of the courts have shifted to encourage more and more parental participation on the part of fathers. This has created an opportunity for more men to gain joint custody (and sole custody in some cases) of their minor children. Studies regarding the role of fathers in raising healthy children lead to a couple of conclusions. One fact that is well established is that children experience greater wellbeing when both parents cooperate amicably in childrearing. The outcomes for children of divorced couples who share parenting but experience high levels of conflict are much poorer. Naturally, the couples who do best at joint physical and/or legal custody are those who voluntarily agree to the arrangement. When fathers are granted child custody after a court battle, there is usually a great deal of tension and conflict already present in the relationship. This does not mean that fathers should not seek custody. However, keeping fighting and disruption to a minimum should be primary concerns for both parents.