What are the effects of divorce on children?

Answer 1

When I was a kid, my parents got divorced. I was 13 and I was absolutely crushed. I guess because I was old enough to understand what this meant. Children of different ages react to in different ways. A younger child might not know what exactly is going on, and might not take it as bad as a older child would. Custody can also have a major affect on the child. My parents split up the week, so I would switch back and forth between their houses. In the beginning, I was so upset by everything going on. I started to cut and do horrible things. Yes, believe it or not, divorce can have a huge affect on a child. I did very well hiding my feelings from my parents. Also make sure that your child is sharing things with you. No matter what they say, they are probably hurting to some degree inside. Talk with them. And most importantly, before you make any big decisions, think about the huge affect this will have on your children.

Answer 2

For a child , divorce represents the end to their world as they know it. Where they previously relied on the predictability and security of their family unit, that unit is now changing and in their minds, things will never be the same again.

Its no wonder then, that divorce can have such serious effects on the children, particularly those that are old enough to understand what's happening but still young enough to feel dependant upon Mom and Dad for their safety and happiness.

As a result, children often react to divorce with a wide range of behaviors, many of which can be dangerously self-destructive. Common signs that your child is feeling the impact of the divorce process include:

Aggression

Children often react to divorce with anger and aggressive behavior. While their feelings are understandable, it is important that parents address the aggression or defiance as soon as it erupts to prevent the behavior from escalating. Some children may also feel the need to take sides, particularly if the divorce is a volatile one and the result is serious aggression against one parent while clinging to the other.

Withdrawal

Many children going through a divorce will withdraw from the family unit completely, alienating both parents as well as siblings and even their friends. This type of behavior can quickly lead to depression so its imperative that parents be aware of the warning signs and address any unusual behavior as soon as it appears.

Disruption in School

Children going through a divorce often take their frustrations out in school. This can result in lower grades, conduct marks and even parent-teacher conferences.

Guilt

One of the most common misconceptions of children in a divorce is that the split is somehow their fault. This can lead to a tremendous amount of guilt and even cause the child to believe that its their responsibility to get the parents back together.

Answer 3

negatively, also depends on the basis of the divorce, over time can cause reckless behavior, anger problens, 'issues' in general. And can cause stree and abandonment worries. Depends greatley on the person.

Answer 4

A problem is that when you're a certain age, you'll have to choose one parent to live w/ for the rest of your life.

So if you choose your dad, your mother will get hurt emotionally and might not forgive you ever. It's the same w/ your dad.

Also, many kids believe that it's their fault that their parents divorced so kids can go into deep depression for a while.

Answer 5

There are several ways that each family member is affected by divorce. Teens can become skeptical about trust, loyalty, love and even their own self confidence during a divorce. They are just starting to realize the value of mature friendships, and their confidence may be shaken. They can sometimes act out, for attention, by rebelling and getting involved in dangerous relationships. Parents would do well to talk with the teen, explaining that he or she is not to blame, and that they are truly loved by both parents. The teen should be encourage to have healthy relationships with both parents.

Answer 6

My parents had a really nasty divorce 3 years ago, and I still remember everything. From a 14 year old with divorced perspective, its hard. somedays are better than others but they all stink. I live 70/30 with my father. Last week I asked him if he has ever lied to me about anything dealing with the divorce. He didnt, but he told me something dead in my eyes and I will never forget it, He said," son, I have never told you anything, that I can't prove to you when you are 18." As a kid, a divorce can go both ways. You can hate your parents for it, and piss and moan for 2 years, or you can accept that challenge and learn how to adapt. But as long as you are cool to your kid, and dont hold anything that they said against them, Its no big deal.

Answer 7

If you are talking about your parents to teens or children of any age this can be a trauma. Most children don't want their parents to divorce. The pros are if the parents are always arguing in front of the children; there is abuse then this can teach the child abusive behavior. Neither of these two ways of life are good for children and it's best for the parents to divorce and share custody of the children. After divorce some parents even become good friends.

Answer 8

they are completely heart broken and i would know i am one. they will cry about it for the rest of their lives and make sure they get to see both of his/her parents or they will hate life.