When parents divorce children will experience fear, uncertainty, anger and disappointment. Some children will be more able to cope with these emotions than others.
As a parent you can watch for the following warning signs:
Prolonged sadness or depression
Negative behavior, defiance and acting out
Withdrawal and disinterest in play and social activities
Changes in sleep habits and patterns
Difficulty focusing and poor grades
Low self-esteem
Regression and irrational fears
Short term sadness and anger are normal but if the above behaviors persist beyond a few months it’s time to do two things:
1) Stop fighting with your ex-spouse. Even though you believe you are hiding the conflict from your children you are not. Find a way to negotiate a resolution and find a lawyer who will support you in doing this.
2) Get your children to counselling.
Deborah A. Todd
