A divorce between couples is sometimes a mutual agreement to separate as they see this as the best solution in a difficult marriage. Unfaithfulness, violent acts, deceit, or a general lack of respect have all pushed marriages to the brink of separation. Divorce, however, being a better solution for the partners may have unintended and unwelcome repercussions on a child. It is essential to acknowledge this and be informed of the effects.
A younger child may experience feelings of guilt and anxiety, self-blame, as well as attitude and behavioural change, aligning with one of the parents to have a sense of belonging and to assuage their discomfort. The necessary support helps to reduce the emotional consequences to the child.
Establishing the most reasonable custody agreement for the child is essential to getting the best family divorce court trial lawyers. Civil lawyers ensure the parent most capable of taking care of the child is left with them or allows both of them to have adequate time with the child. The intervention of child support ensures they get financial permission from the non-custodial parent, placing the child in a better position to be taken care of.
Invest time for your child. Make sure to adjust your schedule to be there for your child as much as possible physically. Physical presence gives the child a sense of security and reliability. It makes it easier for your child to connect with you, confide and have conversations. Calls and regular video calls where distance may not allow physical presence may be the least a parent can do to try and supplement it.
Co-parenting. Co-parenting means putting away your differences when the child is around. Co-parenting also requires you to support the child’s interaction with the other parent by being open to spending quality hours with them and their extended family members. Helping to forge a stable relationship with both parents gives the child a family image or perspective to feel comfortable even if the parents are not together.
They are not using the child to send a message to the other parent and avoiding ill-talk toward the child. Making degrading comments about the other parent around or toward the child makes them uncomfortable and feel like they are in an unstable, toxic environment. The child is likely to feel the need to take sides, which will cause anxiety, imbalance, and feelings of conflict. The goal is always to give the child peace, not make them the least affected.
They were reassuring the child. Being honest about the change of events is essential. Both parents have to plan how to communicate to the child about their separation and inform them that routines may have to change. Ideally, it should be followed by constant reassurance that things are going well, assisting the child in adapting, and being patient with them since change is usually challenging.
If you need anything concerning divorce or legal support throughout a divorce, feel free to contact us.