Practical Solutions, Personal Service
Photo of Lisa L. Johnson

Common misconceptions about children and divorce 

On Behalf of | Nov 20, 2022 | Divorce Mediation

The final years of your marriage were rocky, to say the least. You and your ex tried to make it work largely for the children because you’d heard that children always struggle after divorce. 

Is it true that children struggle to thrive after divorce and parents are better off staying together? Or can parents and their children make a success of life post-divorce? 

Divorce isn’t all doom and gloom 

Of course, there is no such thing as an easy divorce, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worthwhile. Staying together for the sake of the children generally doesn’t pan out as intended, either. Staying in a household that consists of a toxic relationship and a hostile environment can be as damaging to children as anything else. 

Post-divorce, children can find a settled and balanced lifestyle and as long as both parents are putting the child’s needs first, co-parenting can be successful. In fact, some research indicates that children of divorce go on to develop higher levels of empathy than their peers.

Is one parent always favored? 

Sometimes, kids will spend more time with dad and over the next month, they might side with mom more often. The reality is that the child will love both parents. As long as parents remain amicable and responsible post-divorce, the child can go on to have good times with both parties. Trouble only tends to arise when parents use their children as pawns or expose them to inappropriate arguments. 

As long as you and your co-parent are willing to prioritize the needs of your children, then their lives can be a success story post-divorce. Seeking legal guidance will help you to get to the stage where you want to be.