Divorce can be a very stressful and difficult time for many families and can be especially hard when there are children involved. The effects of divorce on children can vary, some children may react to divorce in a natural and understanding way, whilst others may struggle with the transition.
Before starting the divorce process it’s important to understand the potential effects it may have on the children involved. As a parent you can do your best to plan and understand the potential warning signs that may arise.
Sarah Scriven, lawyer, in the Family & Divorce team outlines some of the things to look out for and offers advice on how to best help your children cope with the divorce.
Things to look out for
Difficulty in adapting to change: Divorce could mean there will be some new and unfamiliar changes to the children’s life. They may find it difficult to come to terms with their new life and struggle with unfamiliar family dynamics such as a new home, school or even new family members.
New feelings of anger and irritability: Processing a divorce can be very overwhelming, it may cause irritability at anger towards those involved.
Poor academic performance: Children may use this time to test boundaries, usually targeting their academics as that is within their control.
Social withdrawal: You may notice that your usual outgoing and social child has withdrawn and become shy or even anxious.
How to help your children cope
Divorce isn’t an easy topic to approach, being transparent and understanding with will hopefully take off some pressure. You can help by:
• Listening to your child’s concerns
• Giving them time to process the changes they will be going through
• Providing strong and constant reassurance, giving a sense of security
• Encouraging communication between both parents
• Never letting the child feel like they are in the middle
• Understanding that this is a difficult time for everyone involved
Not all children will see negative effects from a divorce and those living in high conflict environments may deem the situation to be a positive step.
Above all, your child wants to know that they have your unconditional love and support regardless of your relationship status.
How Blaser Mills Law can help
Sometimes taking the first step can be the hardest part of the divorce process. Our expert team are on hand to help you make the right decision in the best interest of both parties and the children involved. If you would like to speak to our Family & Divorce team in confidence, contact Sarah Scriven on 01494 478684 or email sjs@blasermills.co.uk.
About Sarah
Sarah lives locally in High Wycombe and previously studied at the Wycombe High School. She is currently based at our new Marlow office in Liston Court. In her spare time Sarah enjoys swimming, reading and baking.