Date

10-14-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Bridgette Hester

Keywords

African American Couples, blended families, emotional regulation, marriage quality, custody conflicts, co-parenting alliance, marital shield

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive case study was to describe the perceived influence of emotional regulation and marriage quality regarding custody conflicts for 13 married African American husbands and wives navigating co-parenting dynamics. The theory guiding this study was Family Systems Theory by Dr. Murray Bowen, which explains how external relational stress and internal emotional boundaries directly impact marital stability and family systems. Data collection methods comprised separate semi-structured interviews, three reflective journal prompts, and a focus group. Data analysis was conducted using Reflexive Thematic Analysis to identify primary codes and recurring themes. The findings revealed that participants experienced boundary friction, avoidance, and erasure with ex-spouses during custody challenges, while also navigating biases within the legal system. To alleviate conflict, the couples utilized a marital shield, practicing deliberate disengagement to maintain a protective distance from adversarial ex-partners. Additionally, the implementation of a co-parenting alliance facilitated positive cross-household relationships and established necessary boundaries, ultimately supporting the healthy maintenance of the couple’s marriage and family dynamic. The results of this study indicated that family therapists can assist couples by helping them apply the marital shield as a positive boundary to protect their household and marriage. Furthermore, legal systems must actively target and address unique biases faced by fathers navigating child custody issues.

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