A «natural grouping» is a small
social unit made up of people whose fives are in some measure interlaced and who provide for each other a
stable context in which the orderly transmission of values can take place from parents to children.
Michigan: Custody is awarded based on the best interests of the child, based on the following factors: moral character and prudence of the parents; physical, emotional, mental, religious and
social needs of the child; capability and desire of each parent to meet the child's emotional, educational, and other needs; preference of the child, if the child is of sufficient age and maturity; the love and affection and other emotional ties existing between the child and each parent; the length of time the child has lived in a
stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity; the desire and ability of each parent to allow an open and loving frequent relationship between the child and other parent; the child's adjustment to his / her home, school, and community; the mental and physical health of all parties; permanence of the family
unit of the proposed custodial home; any evidence of domestic violence; and other factors.