The present invention relates to novel ethylenic copolymers comprising:a) from 25 to 95% by weight of monomer of formula (I), comprising PEG unitsb) from 4 to 50% by weight of cationic monomer or one of its saltsc) from 1 to 35% by weight of anionic monomer and/or its salts.The invention also relates to cosmetic compositions, in particular hair compositions, comprising said copolymers and to a cosmetic treatment method employing them.