When research into divorce’s effects on children first started, it was almost entirely negative. Researchers in the 50s and 60s did not have as many children as they do today to study. Decades later, the research is much more extensive, and we know that divorce does not have to lead to self-esteem and depression issues with children whose parents divorce.

Today, the discussion centers more on what parents can do to ensure that their children adjust well to post-divorce life. One area parents should watch is how the financial effects of divorce impact the life of a child. Research shows that children face increased stress when they experience a significant change in lifestyle as a result of their parents’ divorce.

Another important area is the relationship between the child’s mother and father. Researchers have consistently observed that the more bitter a divorce is, the bigger impact the divorce has on the couple’s children. When couples continue to fight after a divorce, it is much harder for children to move on. In other words, if parents cannot move on, they should not expect their children to do the same.

Do you have any recommendations about successfully helping children navigate their parents’ divorce? Expert recommendations include breaking the news to children as a couple, avoiding the details that caused the divorce and respecting your ex-spouse’s time with the children.

John K. Grubb & Associates, P.C. – Houston divorce attorneys