Your Child & Divorce

Does My Child's Age Matter?

There is a common misconception that divorce is harder on children than it is for older individuals whose parents are going through divorce. While there are certainly a distinct set of challenges and emotional issues that younger children must deal with when going through a divorce, adults whose parents are divorcing face an entirely different yet equally upsetting set of factors. For adults, the foundation of their family which they have loved and relied upon for their entire lives is now separating. This can create a tremendous amount of upheaval and emotional turmoil. Seeing the post-divorce relationship turn ugly can only further aggravate the emotions. Therefore, it is still just as important that you and your ex-spouse understand the impact your divorce will have on your child regardless of their age.

Another important aspect to consider is that if your child has grown into an adult that means you have spent a significant amount of your life with your ex-spouse. Do you want to remember that time in your life with fondness and appreciation for what was, or instead with anger, regret and bitterness? If you want to maintain a positive viewpoint about that time in your life, you must work to create a new and successful relationship as parents after the divorce.

The bottom line is that divorce is very upsetting and emotional process that impacts children of all ages. The guidelines offered in Your Child and Divorce are relevant to all children of all ages, from the younger years up through adulthood. I know this because they have proven successful throughout my childhood and every day and year of my life since then, and they can also help your child.

“Children are like mimics, they act like their parents in spite of every attempt to each them good manners.” - Anonymous