The effects of divorce on children can be felt on numerous fronts. From the psychological effects of divorce on children to their school performance, every aspect of the minor’s life will change once divorce occurs. To help you navigate this rough time, we’ve put together this helpful guide on the effects of divorce on children’s behavior.
Effects of Divorce on Children’s Behavior
The negative effects of divorce on children are far-reaching and sometimes seem to be unrelated. However, you can expect that some children will suffer from the following behaviors after a divorce.
- Diminished school performance and achievement
- Reduced ability to handle conflict
- Increased approval of sexual behaviors and activity
- Higher rate of crime
- Increased acceptance of tobacco, alcohol, or drug use
- Higher chance of suicide
Additionally, the effect of divorce on children’s future relationships is something to consider. Children might be less likely to trust and may no longer want a family of their own one day.
Effects of Divorce on Children’s Mental Health
The effects of divorce on children’s mental health will depend upon what stage of life they are in. For example, long-term effects of divorce on children often translate into blaming one parent once the kids are teenagers. Additionally, as part of the effects of divorce on school-age children, kids often assume the separation was their fault and have to deal with that shame or guilt. Beyond that, the effects of divorce on children’s personality development are most prominently seen with younger children who worry their parents could stop loving them too.
Short Term Effects of Divorce on Children
What are the effects of divorce on children from a short-term standpoint? Even the short-term effects of divorce on children are going to infiltrate every part of life. You may expect to see the following harmful effects of divorce on children temporarily.
- Heightened stress levels
- Trouble with academics
- Overwhelming emotions
- More fear about safety
- Behavioral problems
- Powerlessness feelings
- Regression to bad habits
- Complete confusion
Long Term Effects of Divorce on Children
Studies show that the effects of divorce on children’s future relationships and health are prominent. You might deal with some of the following troubles.
- Persistent anger at one or more parents
- Moderate to severe clinical depression
- Poorer health outcomes
- Higher rates of anxiety
- Low life satisfaction
- More fears
- Higher chance of divorce in adult life
- Less trust in others
- Lower socioeconomic status
Helping Children Cope with the Effects of Divorce
Sometimes, it’s not possible to continue a marriage or even more damaging to the children if the destructive marriage were to go on. In these instances, it’s possible to create more positive effects of divorce on children, but it will take work. If you don’t want to deal with the effect of divorce on children’s psychological development, we recommend following these steps.
- Talk to your child about the divorce together.
- Create a plan and stick to it. Children need routine.
- Talk about your child’s feelings and make sure you accept them.
- Seek out professional help when needed.
Find A Divorce Lawyer Near Me
The effects of divorce on children can be mitigated with effort and support. Take some of the burdens off of your shoulders by using a qualified family lawyer in Colorado. Thomas Ramunda Jr. has the experience you are looking for and can guide you through the process with ease. He offers a listening ear and is always ready to carry the load for you.
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