Divorce can be a scary, stressful and sad experience for any child in Kentucky. However, your child’s reaction to the whole process will depend on the parent’s response and conduct. Constant marital conflict can traumatize children, hindering their ability to adapt. However, when both parents behave civilly and share time with the child, the child adjusts faster.
Here are some strategies to mitigate the traumatic effects of divorce on your child:
Solve the case amicably
Avoiding the court is one of the most critical steps in a divorce process. A court-centered approach can be detrimental because it establishes a competitive win-lose structure. There will be a winner and a loser, and accepting defeat is usually not easy. Hence, the loser may decide to go back to court to try to win.
The process might become tedious and expensive at the same time. It might also affect your child’s recovery, success in school, mental health and future relationships. Staying out of court protects your child from conflict. Go for an option that offers confidentiality and gives you more control. Opting for mediation or collaborative divorce is among the most favorable choices.
Don’t talk negatively about your spouse
You should avoid making your child choose between you and your spouse. The discussions should be between you and your spouse. Making your child choose causes them more anxiety, which might affect them even in adulthood.
Your child’s wish is to see both of you happy. Regardless of their response to the divorce, try to understand their emotions.
Always put the child first
Many decisions come with divorce, including finances and living arrangements. Having a divorce legal advisor by your side helps you make sober decisions. If your children are old enough, you can allow them to make decisions. However, never push or try to manipulate them to favor you. This will not only affect them negatively, but it might also slow down the process.
When considering divorce, your child’s well-being is consistently a major priority. To reduce the severe effects of divorce on your children, take their feelings and needs into consideration.