How A Bad Divorce Can Influence A Child
Although marriage is intended to be forever, oftentimes it simply doesn’t work out that way. For financial, compatibility, or even abusive reasons, many marriages end in divorce. In fact, slightly less than half of all marriages in the U.S end in divorce, which is driven by a number of factors. While a divorce can be a life-shattering event, it can often have the most effect on any children involved. In this article, we’ll discuss how a messy divorce can impact your children.
First Year Woes
The first year after a divorce is understandably the roughest for any children involved. They struggle to cope with the separation of their parents and may experience a litany of emotions during this time. Often, these emotions include anger, anxiety, and a loss of stability. They may feel like the divorce was their fault and worry that they may lose the affection of one or both parents. If one parent does not see the child or children often, a sense of abandonment may wash over them. During this time, perhaps more than at any other point, it’s important to reinforce the connections that had been established before the divorce.
To lessen these feelings, be sure to reinforce the relationships that had been established before the divorce. Don’t use the child or children to fight your partner; instead, make them feel loved and wanted throughout the process. Make sure they are aware that they will always be loved by both parents, no matter what happens.
Academic, Financial, and Behavioral Problems
A common theme of divorces is that money will often get much tighter. A home or even school change may be necessary, and all the rapid change can fundamentally change your child. Grades may slip, and they may act out because of their intense feelings after the divorce. Don’t be too hard on your child, and encourage them to talk about their feelings rather than hold them and lash out at other people or situations. Remember, a divorce is a process for all parties—expecting your child to be perfectly fine is unrealistic and detrimental to their health.
Staying Together For The Kids
Contrary to popular belief, it may not always be wise to stay together just for the children. If your current environment is hostile, argumentative and unloving, your child or children may develop mental issues that extend into adulthood. It’s best to closely examine why you want a divorce, and determine if your problems can be fixed with more understanding and counseling, or if the issues are too great. After a divorce, with hard work and patience, it is possible to provide a somewhat stable experience for your children. It’s best to consult an expert if you feel you may go down the divorce path.
The Rios & Parada Law Firm Can Help
If you think you’re headed for a divorce, Rios & Parada Law Firm can help. Our divorce experts can help make the process smooth, and guide you through this tough life transition. Contact us today to see what we can do for you!