Children are usually the most affected by divorces. Divorce has emotional and psychological implications on children. They may undergo brief periods of sadness, confusion, anger, or even guilt depending on how well they understand the reasons for the changes in their family’s order. The sense of stability they once had may feel shattered, which may result in adjustment issues due to new custody or visitation arrangements. Parents need to acknowledge the effects to maintain effectiveness in the delicate process of child rearing.
Depending on their age and personality, each child will react differently to a separation. For example, younger children may exhibit regressive behaviors, up to and including bedwetting, but older children may appear sullen and withdraw or act out in aggression. Conflicted feelings about divorce are typical among children, including love for both parents, nor wanting to be stuck in the middle of their parents’ arguments. Their denial, anger, and other tendencies may give way to a calmer demeanor, but parents should be ready to give healthy reassurance and support anytime these responses may be evoked.
It is necessary to hear the child out and acknowledge the feeling when addressing a child’s emotional distress due to the divorce of their parents. Ask them what are the feelings and needs they have instead? Explaining things about the divorce as best as one can to the child will most likely clarify things. A reassuring environment comprising constant love and reassurance will help the child feel safe in the face of the new changes.
Information and assistance about mental health can be useful for children undergoing parental divorce. They can get into mental health counselling where they will be able to express their feelings and learn how to deal with them. Individual and family counseling seeks to alleviate the distress affecting the family through divorce by providing a means for family members to learn better ways of communicating and healing. Look for counselling in canada or counsellors near you to support the children to get throught the challenging times of divorce.