When your marriage collapses, so does your child’s world. The flood of confusing emotions can be too overwhelming for their developing mind. Before you realize the impact, your child may be already attempting to externalize their struggles through poor academic performance, social interaction withdrawal, development of mental health illnesses or demonstration of delinquent behavior.
Try as you might, the divorce may catch up with your family dynamics and take a significant toll on your child’s psychological well-being. But if you agree with your spouse to both become willing participants, working together on a semblance of stability despite the chaos of your Connecticut divorce, your child may still have a chance at experiencing a loving home.
Coping as a family
Every child copes differently with divorce. You can help lessen the damaging impact of divorce on them in the following ways:
- Never ask your child to pick sides: It’s bad enough they go back and forth residing in two households. Placing them in the middle can only worsen their conflicting feelings. Eventually, they may feel guilty for choosing one parent over the other.
- Implement age-appropriate discipline: Show them the consequences of troublesome behavior. They must understand the value of respecting authority.
- Empower them by demonstrating trust: Avoid imposing how they must process whatever it is they’re thinking or feeling. Allow them to confidently communicate their thoughts and feelings freely, so they can associate their relationship with you as a safe space.
No matter how equally scared and lost you are, ultimately, it is about being your child’s haven during these challenging times. But if your child continues to act out despite your best efforts, you may consider asking for help in support groups and psychological therapy.
Professional help is available
Aside from securing professional psychological help for your child, you must also secure legal counsel for yourself. With both experts on board looking out for your family’s interests, you can have well-informed choices about navigating your divorce while upholding your child’s best interests.