Understanding the Emotional and Psychological Impact of Divorce on Children

Children’s lives can be turned upside down with the divorce of their parents, and children have been known to react differently to this. Parents, on the other hand, need to know these effects in order to support their youth in such a time of distress.

Feelings of Loss and Grief

When children lose their families, there is an impending feeling of loss that they have to deal with, which is oftentimes overwhelming. This feeling by itself can cause anxiety and stress, particularly with the amalgamation of worrying about the transition along with the uncertainty of their future, relocation, etc. Children are also impacted heavily during times of parental conflict, which takes the feeling of loss further.

Anger, Resentment and Guilt

Children often love both parents equally, and with the divorce, they might develop resentment and anger towards either one of their parents or both. Young children take this a step further and believe that the need to search for a scapegoat for their separation makes them the reason behind it, which fuels more anger and rage inside them.

Behavioral Changes

Another dysfunction that stems out of aggressive behavior is the need to rebel against society as a means of coping with the trauma, sometimes leading to antisocial behavior—withdrawing from social interactions, which in turn fuels a feeling of loneliness. Children also tend to struggle with their academics because concentrating in the classroom becomes increasingly difficult with the amalgamation of social discomfort and stress.

Societal Interaction Issues and Future Relationships Could Develop Trust Issues

Divorce in unison, along with more than one needing to stop wanting the negotiations, might lead to feeling scared of abandonment.