Co‐Parenting Programs: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

Objective This article aims to provide an overview of the efficacy of co‐parenting programs on outcomes related to child's adjustment, parents' well‐being, and quality of the co‐parenting, romantic, and parent–child relationships. Background Numerous co‐parenting programs have been developed, supported by empirical findings associating quality of co‐parenting to the overall family well‐being. However, to our knowledge, the efficacy of those programs has not yet been assessed. Method This article included 38 articles corresponding to 27 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) presenting 23 programs. We conducted a meta‐analysis to estimate the efficacy of co‐parenting programs and a review of programs to identify the ingredients of co‐parenting programs that may contribute to this efficacy. Results Results support a small but significant effect of co‐parenting programs on outcomes related to parents' well‐being and the quality of co‐parenting and romantic relationships. Conclusion Finally, despite the heterogeneity of the programs, some commonalities are identified, such as the use of psychoeducation and skills training. Implications Our work supports the added value of co‐parenting programs for both vulnerable families and families with no apparent major difficulties. Future directions in terms of study and program designs are proposed to promote high‐quality research in this field.