Courts Should See Men as Parents, Not Just `Open Wallets' for Child Support

Courts Should See Men as Parents, Not Just 'Open Wallets' for Child Support

The front-page article ''Custody Cases Test Attitudes of Judges,'' March 15, reported the increasing frequency of women losing custody of their children to former husbands.

This is coupled with news stories such as those about the custody battle of Marcia Clark, the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson case, and tabloid TV talk shows that indicate that women are losing custody of children in divorces. The news media and the tabloids all portray these events as terrible. And they are. However, for years, the male has been expected to give up most, if not all, custody of his children without complaining.

It is assumed by the courts and society that the woman makes the better parent. The courts also look upon the male as nothing more than an open wallet. If a man wants custody of a child, the courts view the man as wanting to get out of paying child support.

If the courts really wish to be fair, joint custody should be awarded to both parents and both parents should contribute financially. If one parent limits access, then that parent should lose custody.

Ken Sanger, Ridgecrest, Calif.

Your letters are welcome. For publication they must be signed and include your address and telephone number. Only a selection can be published and none acknowledged. Letters should be addressed to ``Readers Write'' and may be sent by mail to One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115, by fax to 617-450-2317, or by Internet E-mail (200 word words maximum) to OPED@RACHEL.CSPS.COM.