In 1950, only 1.1 percent of American households were led by single fathers. Now, that number has jumped to 8 percent showing that there has been a shift in the way society views parenthood.

When a couple divorces, they need to determine what sort of custody arrangement they want. More and more fathers are fighting to gain custody of their children. There seems to be a growing desire of fathers to be involved in their kids' lives.

All states, including Ohio, have laws in effect that encourage parents to reach some sort of joint parenting agreement. In the past, courts had a tendency to award custody to the mother, believing that it was in the children's best interests.

One particular father fought for primary custody for four years after he separated from his son's mother. Originally given visitation rights, the father believed that he should be awarded custody because he could financially support having a child, was available to nurture the father-son relationship and was a responsible man. He was eventually awarded primary custody.

Another father worked with the mother to come to a custody arrangement that both could agree upon. It appears that both believed that it would be best for the kids to have consistent contact with both parents. And though the parents were no longer together, they agreed on sharing custody.

Ultimately, no matter if the parent is a single father or single mother, the courts will look to see what custody plan will serve the best interests of the child or children involved. Sometimes that means shared custody and sometimes that means one parent is awarded primary custody.

Source: Bloomberg: "Single-Dad Courtroom Wins Show Greater Embrace of New Families," Joel Stonington and Frank Bass, July 24, 2011.