Almost one out of four American children grow up in single parent homes. There are plenty of reasons for this, but divorce is a primary factor. If you're getting a divorce, then you're likely worried about how it will effect your child.
Don't panic. Temporary discomfort and stress are normal, but long-term trauma isn't inevitable. You and your child can grow and thrive through and after a divorce.
One way to get the best end result is to consider hiring an Orlando collaborative law for divorce team. They will work with your whole family to help mitigate the negative impacts of divorce.
Do you need more details? Read on to get informed.
You and your former spouse have likely considered divorce for a long time. While you've had time to adjust to the idea, your child hasn't! That's why you can expect your child to feel an immediate sense of confusion and anger.
This shock can lead to the following common effects of divorce on children.
Think back to when you first considered divorce. What were your initial feelings? Panic? Fear? Expect your child to experience a similar wave of emotions.
They won't feel secure at first. They'll feel anxious about what's to come, and they won't know what to expect.
Another common emotion to experience is anger.
Your child may blame one parent for the split. They may even attempt to shift blame onto themselves. Let them know that it's 100% normal to feel angry about the situation, and that you understand.
If your child doesn't feel secure enough to express the above emotions, they'll show up in other ways.
Your child may act out for attention. They may act out as a cry for help. They may even act out in an attempt to get you and your ex to work together on a solution.
No one wants their child to go through these emotions. Despite that, you must weigh out the pros and cons of getting divorced. Staying in a toxic relationship effects your child in similar ways, too.
Know that you're working towards a better and brighter future. Also, recognize that how you and your spouse act now will make a massive difference.
If you can cooperate, then your child will feel more secure. Collaborative divorce efforts can help facilitate that.
A mental health expert will be on stand by to ensure both parents' needs get met. The less resentment parents come out of the divorce with, the better. Happy parents make happy children.
Going through a divorce is trying, stressful, and anxiety-inducing for everyone involved. Children are likely to pick up on your stress, and they may even act out, too.
The best thing you can do for your youngster is strive for stability and peace. If you and your spouse want what's best for your child, then you'll need to work together even while splitting up.
Our Orlando collaborative law for divorce team can help. If you're interested in speaking with us about how we can help, then we want to hear from you. Send us a message now to get in touch.