Dynamics of Divorce                                      
                                                                         


CHILDREN AND DIVORCE 

It is often said that parents are asked to make important decisions regarding their children at a time when they are emotionally least able to. Such a time can be during the divorce process.

How your child responds to Divorce:

Infants:
Feelings of emotional security are dependent on getting their needs met and on the emotional state of each parent. Infants sense anger and anxiety.

3 ½ -5 Year Old:
They tend to think in terms of themselves and their immediate needs. They seem to be connected with the “here and now” and believe the world revolves around them, they also frequently blame themselves for the divorce. May return to earlier behavior patterns, such as wet the bed, have difficulty sleeping, turn to such things as security blankets, have toilet training problems, may withdraw, detach themselves from the absent parent in order to protect themselves from the pain of loss.


5 & 6 Years Old:
Tend to deal primarily with the here and now; but however some kids may regress in behavior in ways similar to the younger child; can over worry and wonder about the immediate future.

6 -10- Years Old:
Have more of a tendency to think ahead (predict) as well as think back; this way of thinking can create anxiety and sadness. They sometimes want to assume more responsibility for the family and may attempt to reunite the parents. They are more likely to show of their intense anger.

Adolescents/Teenagers:
 Will begin to come to terms with the conflicts between the idealized and more realistic parental figures, which can be very painful; are aware of the reality of divorce.