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In separation or divorce, children are the greatest victims.
Having witnessed family distress and then having lost their main
sense of security, they blame themselves for causing, or at least
not preventing the break-up of the family. They desperately seek
ways to get their parents back together, including misbehaving,
so the parents have to unite to handle or "keep" them.
Chances for adjustment of these children are poorer if the parents
do not communicate well or consistently, especially regarding
custody and visitation. If the parents make negative or nasty
comments about each other to the children, or if they disagree
significantly with each other about such important items as discipline,
diet, schoolwork, and extracurricular activities, children can
become quite confused, anxious, depressed and/or angry, often
resulting in behavioral problems.
It is possible for children to enjoy two homes and be happy and
well adjusted. Attorneys and psychologists can help separated
and divorced parents negotiate and communicate better, so that
the best interests of the children are primary, and they are raised
to be healthy and productive people.
Talk to someone who can help. If you would like the name of a
qualified psychologist in your area, please try our Psychologist
Locator.
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