As a child, receiving the news that their parents are getting a divorce can be devastating. They will most likely experience a range of emotions from anger and sadness to worry and stress. Although parents shouldn’t stay together for the sake of the kids, it’s crucial for them to understand how their kids will be affected.

We know how valuable the relationship you have with your child is, and we wouldn’t want anything to compromise that. It is possible to pursue a divorce while sparing your child the hardship that comes with one.

Below, we’re sharing what parents can do to help minimize the pain and adverse effects of divorce on their child.

How are Children Affected by Divorce?

Children are resilient, but many have trouble with the divorce transition. These are some of the changes that you should keep an eye out for:

• Mental health issues: Research has shown that depression and anxiety rates are higher among children with divorced parents.

• Poor academic performance: When children are unexpectedly hit with a divorce, it can affect their ability to focus on school.

• Loss of interest in social activities: Research also suggests that divorce can affect children socially. Kids may feel like it’s harder to relate to others and may feel insecure about it.

• Behavioral Problems: Children with divorced parents sometimes experience more conduct disorders, delinquency, and impulsive behaviors.

One study looked at the challenges children of divorce face, and the most significant factor that harms them is continual conflict between the parents. They found that parents who fought in front of and over their kids did the most damage.

Use Divorce Mediation to Help Your Children

Some divorces can be extremely contentious, and the court system in its nature is adversarial, pitting parents up against each other. The combination of the two can have several consequences for the children who are inadvertently involved.

Mediation is a way to effectively settle disputes while promoting cooperation, compromise, and communication with the help of a mediator. During the traditional litigation route, you can easily lose sight of what’s most important. Mediation can help you set aside your differences and direct your energy into your child.

Our expert mediation team will help you seek a resolution that minimizes the harm of divorce for your child. Call (320) 299-4249 to schedule a consultation with one of our FairWell Guides.