Parenting Online: An Exploration of Virtual Parenting Time in the Context of Separation and Divorce

With each successive generation, the growth of information and communication technologies (ICT) is exponential as a central fixture within our society. The increased use of technology has spawned a new area of research to explore children's reconfiguration of intimate relationships after separation. There is growing interest in the use and impact of ICT to facilitate parent–child relationships in child custody disputes. This review of both the legal cases and social science literature explores whether virtual parenting time can facilitate, maintain, enhance, or replace in-person parent–child contact. The review highlights the benefits and drawbacks of virtual parenting time and provides suggestions for considering the optimal use of ICT within parenting plans.