Dear D. Allen, make divorce easier for kids

 Work at staying together

The first thing I’d say is do everything you can to stay together. This means seeking help individually and as a couple. Sometimes a temporary separation helps. That being said, many people have made all attempts to work things out, but can’t. Statistics suggest around 50 percent of first marriages divorce. Those who have decided to end their marriage may hire divorce lawyers who have the knowledge and experience that can help them achieve their desired results.

Not the kids fault

It’s common for kids to think their parents’ divorce is somehow their fault? Some kids feel guilty about what happened, or wish they had prevented arguments by cooperating more within the family, doing better with their behavior, or getting better grades. It is important to communicate to kids that separation and divorce are a result of a couple’s problems with each other, not with their kids.

It’s common for kids emotions to change frequently, too. They may feel stressed out, angry, frustrated, or sad. They might feel protective of one parent or blame one for the situation. They may feel abandoned, afraid, worried, or guilty. They may also feel relieved, especially if there has been a lot of tension or fighting at home.

Keep the peace

Dealing with divorce is easiest when parents get along. Kids find it especially hard when their parents argue or act with bitterness toward each other.

Be fair

Most kids say it’s important that parents don’t try to get them to “take sides.” Kids need to feel free to hang out with and talk to each parent without the other parent acting jealous, hurt, or mad.

Keeping in touch

Going back and forth between two homes can be tough, especially if parents live far apart. Making an effort for kids to stay in touch with both parents can keep them connected on everyday activities and ideas.

Cooperate

Kids may want both parents to come to special events, like games, plays, or recitals. It helps if parents can figure out a way to make this work.

Talk about the future

Many teens whose parents divorce worry that their own plans for the future could be affected. Talking about the future can help.

Don’t make your child or therapist the messenger

Too many parents attempt to communicate through their children and thus cause undue emotional stress. Likewise, a therapist is not there to be a messenger, and using them to communicate can cause misunderstandings.

Repair the damage you’ve already done

Children tend to respond differently to divorce than adolescents. For young children, divorce tends to increase parental dependence. For the adolescent who is more concerned with their community of friends, divorce tends to energize more independence from family. Consult a divorce attorney and a child custody attorney so the process will be smooth.

Get support

Talking about your feelings and reactions to the divorce with someone you trust helps. If someone is feeling depressed or stressed out, or if it’s hard to concentrate on normal activities, let a counselor or therapist help.

The future can be bright

Adults who work collaboratively through a divorce can help their kids adjust and have a healthy future. 

Dr. Greg Allen, LMFT is a therapist practicing in Palos Verdes Estates. He is the founder and director of Freedom4U, a youth non-profit organization with programs in creative arts, life skills, leadership and service. (freedomcommunity.com). He may be reached at  drgregallen.com or gregallen@drgregallen.com.

 

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