A qualitative study for theory development. A theory was developed which elucidates how divorced parents arrange their parenthood, before and after the end phase of definitively breaking apart. Interviews with detailed questions about interaction with and attitude towards former partner, based on Symbolic Interactionism and The Discovery of Grounded Theory and combined with findings from theories which relate to stress and coping. Items: building a relation, family / rejection as partner / exclusion as partner / avoid partner / adjustment to partner / take distance from partner / compromising / dialogue / resistance against partner / social support / break the contract / break up partnership / Child Welfare Council - child protection / guardianship / ordinance by magistrate of juvenile court / duration of marriage / year of divorce / arrangements concerning parental access / existence of new relationship. Background variables: basic characteristics/ household characteristics/ occupation/employment/ education