Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Net income (loss) including noncontrolling interests in operating subsidiaries	$ (4,398)	$ (32,111)
Unrealized gain on short-term investments, net of tax of $0	0	(20)
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency translation, net of tax of $0	0	(17)
Total other comprehensive loss	(4,398)	(32,148)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(14)	(73)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Acacia Research Corporation	$ (4,384)	$ (32,075)