Child custody can have a significant impact on how your child is raised and the values they grow up with. Certain forms of custody can minimize the harm of divorce or not having an intact family unit, while others may be detrimental to your child. Here is what you need to know about the emotional and psychological impact of custody battles on children. If you need more help meet with our Colorado child custody lawyer today at (855) 976-4020 .
Known Effects of Divorce on Children
Divorce and the absence of a parent from the home can have a devastating impact on children. The effect of child custody conflicts will depend on the actions of the parents, the child’s coping skills, and the type of child custody arrangement.
The effects that children experience also vary widely based on the child’s age and understanding of the situation. Younger children may not understand what is going on, but they may sense tension or a disruption to their regular routine. This new reality can trigger various emotional responses, including anger, anxiety, sadness, and confusion. Some younger children regress developmentally, such as bedwetting or exhibiting signs of separation anxiety they had long outgrown.
School-aged children may feel torn between their parents and not know how to be loyal to both parents. They may blame themselves for the separation. They often suffer academically and socially as a result of the disruption to the family unit.
Older children may be more likely to act out. Children in high-conflict homes are more likely to engage in behaviors that can cause legal problems, such as forms of delinquency, skipping school, and doing drugs, especially if a parent is absent or not properly supervising them.
Divorce and conflict in the home can affect children’s academic performance, friendships, future romantic relationships, and relationships with authority figures. Some children experience depression and anxiety, demonstrate a lack of interest in school activities, or have difficulty concentrating. Some children may have emotional outbursts in response to problems at home, while others may internalize the conflict. It is often difficult for children of divorce to trust others.
Tips for Creating a Positive Co-Parenting Relationship
Even though the potential effects of divorce on children can seem dire, there are proactive steps that you and the other parent can take to minimize the potential of these effects, including the following:
- Maintaining stability: Maintaining the children’s routine is key in making them feel safe and stable. If you have had an informal agreement during your separation that seems to be working, you may wish to continue this arrangement but make it formal. Try to keep routines the same as much as possible, including school schedules and bedtime.
- Having open conversations: Encourage your children to express how they are feeling without facing negative consequences. Try to validate their feelings and reassure them.
- Putting your child’s interests first: Even if there is conflict with your ex, try to focus on what is best for your child and how to form a cooperative co-parenting relationship. Don’t disparage the other parent in front of your children.
- Seeking additional support: Don’t be afraid to seek out additional support from counselors or other mental health professionals who can talk to your children, reassure them, and help them develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Contact an Experienced Colorado Family Law Attorney for Help
The choice you make in your child custody lawyer can also have a significant impact on your case and child’s wellbeing. The family lawyers from Stahly Miner LLC operate in a cooperative spirit, even when the other side is being confrontational. Contact our Colorado family law attorneys today to learn how a formal custody situation can benefit your family at (855) 976-4020 .