Research
New Book: "Vardag med Varannan Vecka"
Psychologist Maria Farm and journalist Lisa Bjärbo wrote the book they missed about life in two homes — on money, equality and kids with special needs.
Living in Two Homes: Why Sweden Is Different
Nowhere else in the world is it as common for children to alternate between two homes as in Sweden. Child psychologist Malin Bergström explains why everyday contact with both parents matters so much.
Alternate Living Is Most Common in Sweden
In no other country is "växelvis boende" — alternate living, where children split their time between both parents' homes — as common as in Sweden. In many parts of the world, a separation still means that children lose everyday contact with one of their parents, most often the father. That loss runs deeper than missed visits: it is in the everyday moments that parenting happens.
There is no other country where alternate living is as common as in Sweden. In many parts of the world, a divorce therefore means that children lose contact with their fathers. That is hard for children, because everyday contact is so crucial in parenting. Parents knowing their children's friends by name, cheering at matches, comforting them, and helping with homework — that is valuable for children.
When children lose everyday contact with a parent, it is not only engagement and support that disappear. They also miss out on other things parents offer — interests, friends, relatives, and spontaneous chats. Researchers often talk about the resources children need and risk losing in a divorce. Resources are not just money, but also emotional closeness, engagement, networks, and knowledge.
- Malin Bergström, researcher and child psychologist
Two Homes Let Children Keep Both Parents
Children who live in two homes get to keep what matters most: everyday contact with both parents. They hold on to the comfort, engagement, and support of two involved adults — and to everything else each parent brings, from relatives and friends to interests and spontaneous conversations.
Malin Bergström Child psychologist, associate professor and author
Elisabeth Scholander Family law attorney and mediator, specialized in conflict resolution for families
27 August 2026
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Related reading
For Children
The Benefits of Living in Two Homes for Children
Two homes can be a good thing for kids: more one-on-one time with each parent, more caring adults around, special traditions, and a calmer everyday life.
Law
Moving with Your Child as a Sole Custodian
With sole custody you decide where your child lives and can move without the other parent's consent. Steps to ease the move and keep contact going.