Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Net income (loss) including noncontrolling interests in operating subsidiaries	$ 6,896	$ (27,353)	$ (43,922)	$ (40,128)
Unrealized gain (loss) on short-term investments, net of tax of $0	16	(94)	42	(356)
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency translation, net of tax of $0	96	0	92	(141)
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income (loss)	0	274	22	617
Total other comprehensive loss	7,008	(27,173)	(43,766)	(40,008)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(186)	(43)	(466)	3,998
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ 7,194	$ (27,130)	$ (43,300)	$ (44,006)