Divorce – a term described as the process of terminating a marriage or marital union. This often includes the reorganising of the legal duties and responsibilities of marriage, thus dissolving the bonds of matrimony between a married couple under the rule of law of the particular country.
For many, this is a painful and disappointing process filled with overwhelming amounts of emotion. Suddenly are the memories of happiness forgotten, what is left is a cold and heartless battle in court.
While this is an unpleasant feeling for both parties involved, those that are most negatively affected by this process are the children.
According to OWN – Oprah Winfrey Network – one in every five children go through the trauma of having witnessed their parents get divorced.
“It is the conflict and argument that can arise between parents that cause the children anxiety and distress,” says Separation Options – a UK company that is dedicated helping individuals, couples and families through separation and divorce.
“Young children sense the heightened emotion and react with distress to the tone of raised or angry voices. Older children can become a communication channel, a way of exchanging messages and complaints between parents,” adds the above-mentioned experts.
It is further encouraged that you show your child that you as parents still love one another and therefore opt to communicate in a more respectful manner. Filling the room with constant arguing can put your child in the position of feeling that they need to switch sides, this can have negative effects on their sleep and concentration.
Psych Central – a mental information and news website – recommends these tips to successfully co-parent after a divorce:
• Practice open communication with your parenting partner.
• Develop a parenting plan.
• Share necessary information about schedules, health, and other concerns.
• Keep your tone respectful whenever possible.
• Talk with your children — and actively listen.
• Let children know in advance where they’ll be staying for holidays and weekends.
Also see: How to build ever-lasting friendships
