Effects of Divorce on Children, Monroe NC

Most children struggle when their parents get a divorce. With assistance, however, many children will adjust after a divorce rather than react as though it is a crisis. Of course, the effects of divorce on children can vary greatly, as every child and situation is unique. 

Our divorce attorneys in Monroe, NC will strive to keep your children’s best interests a priority when representing you in your divorce. Our team of experienced attorneys can help parents manage the possible effects of divorce on their children.

Common Divorce Effects on Children

Some of the common effects of divorce on children include:

• Feelings of guilt
• Irritability and anger
• Heightened emotional sensitivity
• Difficult adaptation to change
• Loss of interest in social activities
• Poor academic performance
• Engaging in destructive behavior
• Increased health problems
• Losing faith in marriages and family

Through research and study, the effects of divorce on children has become an area of concern for the rising generation. Read on below as we highlight the effects of divorce or separation and what signs you can watch for in your children to make sure they are coping well or if they need to seek more help.

Feelings of Guilt

Children are often left with many unanswered questions as to why their parents got a divorce. Many children end up blaming themselves for the turn of events. If unattended, that guilt can cause depression, anxiety, and stress.

Irritability and Anger

The separation and divorce may overwhelm the children causing them to be extremely irritable or angry. The anger may be displayed at their siblings, parents, or even themselves. If your child’s anger persists or causes problems for your child at home or in school, it might be necessary to seek counseling or other help for your child.

Heightened Emotional Sensitivity

The divorce of parents results in many emotions for the children such as feelings of betrayal and loss, confusion, self-pity, and anxiety, among many others. Many parents feel that their children become very emotionally sensitive after a divorce. Having an outlet where children can discuss their feelings, such as counseling or family therapy, often helps children avoid being overwhelmed by their emotions.

Difficult Adaptation to Change

During a separation or after a divorce, children often go through some abrupt and frequent changes. They may have to change schools, make new friends, or move into a new house. All these changes, along with tense family dynamics, may be too much for children to take in at once.

Losing Interest in Social Activity

Feelings of insecurity may cause children affected by divorce to shy away from their peers. They may even find it harder to engage in recreational activities with others. They may feel that their family is the only one that has gone through a divorce.

Poor Academic Performance

Trying to make sense of the changing family dynamics may leave the children frustrated and distracted, even at school. Consequently, this may result in poor academic performance. It may be a good idea to talk to school counselors or your child’s teachers to understand how to best address the negative effect your divorce is having on the child. 

Engaging in Destructive Behavior

While going through a divorce, children may feel buried in unresolved conflict. As a result, they may rebel and engage in destructive behavior. The behaviors unfortunately often include substance abuse and smoking.

Increased Health Problems

Along with the emotional problems divorce often brings, divorce sometimes can also affect a child’s physical health. The stress of their parent’s divorce makes some children prone to illnesses and difficulty sleeping. A child of divorce may also suffer from depression that, if not treated, could create problems later in life.

Losing Faith in Marriages and Families

Children who have watched their parents go through a divorce may lose trust in the marriage institution. They may want to avoid pain and trauma by avoiding relationships in the future.

Why You Should Hire a Family Law Attorney in Monroe, NC

Unfortunately, children are sometimes the most affected by a divorce. With the help of our experienced family law attorneys, we can work with you to help make the divorce less stressful for your children. The Monroe, NC divorce attorneys at Plyler, Long & Corigliano, LLP understand this and will work to make the divorce less stressful on your whole family. With over 40 years of practice experience in family law, our attorneys are familiar with local resources and legal tools to help you protect your children’s emotional and physical health during a divorce. Call us today, (704) 289-2519.

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