You Can Help Your Children Through Divorce
More than 50% of all first marriages will end in divorce. In contentious divorces the children often suffer the most. Even when divorcing parents try and cooperate, there may be short- and long- term effects from divorces. However, there are ways to protect your child and provide them with a better future.Watch Your Words
Recognize any of the following statements? These statements are potentially harmful to your child’s mental health.
Mom/Dad doesn’t love you, she/he is only interested in her/his new family.
Mom/Dad doesn’t want to pay for your food, clothing, etc.
Mom/Dad doesn’t want to see you, they just want to give me a hard time.
You're just a burden to your Mom/Dad — only I love you.
Mom/Dad just thinks I’m a money machine.
Your Mom/Dad never wanted you in the first place.
Look for Early Signs of a Problem
If your child is having a problem, early identification and treatment of the condition can help prevent your child from having residual difficulties in adulthood. Children often suffer in silence. Sometimes you can only get a sense of what is happening to them by changes in behavior.
Separation anxiety.
Refusal of the child to go with the other parent.
Nightmares.
Behavior problems at home or school.
Bed-wetting.
Understand The Risks
Recent studies have shown that contentious divorces can have long-term effects on children lasting into adulthood. Some of these conditions include:
Poor self-esteem
Mistrust of the opposite sex
Promiscuity
Addictions
Eating disorders
Behavioral problems
Inability to establish meaningful relationships