There are many negative impacts of divorce – it is a difficult phase for every family that goes through it. Not only does it involve parents, but children too. When two parents get separated, not only do they address each other differently, but they also find out different ways of parenting their children. Some children cannot cope with the separation and struggle with the transition while some understand it naturally.
However, with the right assistance, children can adjust to the divorce. Since not every child is the same, the effects of divorce vary from child to child. By understanding the extent of the effect, a family can take the necessary steps to prevent a child from fading into a crisis.
Here Are the Negative Impacts of Divorce
Loss of Interest in Social Activity
Children whose parents have recently separated have chances of turning lonely. Research suggests that children might get affected socially. They may have a hard time interacting with others and tend to isolate themselves.
Difficulty Adapting to Change
With divorce comes a lot of changes that children have to adapt to. Sometimes, they find it difficult to adjust to the changes. New family dynamics, new practices, and sometimes new guardians make it altogether difficult for them.
Emotionally Sensitive
Divorce can introduce different types of emotions. Feelings of anger, loss, confusion, depression, anxiety, etc. can consume a child from the inside. A divorce can make a child go through a plethora of emotions. It can overwhelm them emotionally.
Anger/Irritability
Often, children feel overwhelmed and confused and they don’t know how to respond to their emotions. In such cases, they become frustrated and angry. If the issue isn’t addressed on time, their behavior might change entirely. Their unchecked anger might cause something dangerous. Children who are unable to control their emotions might display anger at their parents, friends, or relatives. Sometimes, this anger within children dissipates over time, while in some cases it remains inside children. If it persists, it’s important to be aware of the dangerous effects it can have on children.
Children whose parents are going through toxic divorces have high chances of experiencing externalizing problems like impulsive behavior, conduct disorders, delinquency, etc. Sometimes, children start to argue and fight not just with parents but with their friends too.
Mental Health Problems
Divorce might also result in mental health issues in children. No matter what the culture, gender, or age, children of divorced parents are expected to go through traumatic psychological problems. Divorce might trigger an adjustment disorder in children which may or may not get resolved on time.
Some Important Measures You Can Take
If you are worried about the safety and health of your child and you want to ensure that he/she stays in the best health, you must take proper measures. Below are a few ways in which you can talk to your kid and monitor him/her through the process of divorce.
Discuss the News
Always make your child feel that whatever happened between you and your partner isn’t their fault. Most kids tend to take the blame on themselves and think that the divorce is their fault. As parents, it’s your duty to assure them otherwise. Children are in need of constant reassurance. Give as much information about the process as you want, prepare them for the upcoming change in their lives, and try to be as honest as possible.
Don’t Make Your Child Choose Sides
Your child shouldn’t choose sides between you and your partner. This makes it difficult for children to adjust to the given circumstances. Making your child choose between both parents will only impact them psychologically. Give your child the time he/she needs. Be patient while dealing with them.
Slowly Adjust to New Lifestyles
Whatever arrangements or lifestyle changes you make for yourself after the divorce, your child’s priority comes first. Don’t try to win your child over from your partner. When deciding what is to be done afterwards, always remember whether the kids will be okay with your decision. Remember what’s best for the kids.
Take it Slow When Introducing Your New Life Partner
Introduce your new partner when it’s the right time. Keep your child’s interest at the forefront and only introduce your partner if the relationship is serious. Your child is going through a crucial phase and giving them more big news might not be the best thing to do.
There are many negative impacts of divorce, but they don’t all have to be negative. It’s natural that parents be concerned about their kids’ reactions to this process. The best thing you can do to monitor your child is to trust them and be with them whenever they need you.
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Children of divorce are more likely to experience poverty, educational failure, early and risky sexual activity, non-marital childbirth, earlier marriage, cohabitation, marital discord and divorce. In fact, emotional problems associated with divorce actually increase during young adulthood.
A child may feel a sense of loss. For some children a divorce or separation also means as well as losing their home they also lose the way of their life.