If you're going through a divorce, chances are you're not feeling very good about it. You may be feeling scared, sad, angry, or any number of other negative emotions. And while it's perfectly normal to feel this way, it's important to remember that your children are likely feeling the same way—even if they don't show it. In fact, divorce can have a profound effect on children of all ages. Here's a look at how divorce affects children of all ages, from infants to adults
How Divorce Affects Infants and Toddlers
For infants and toddlers, the effects of divorce can be both immediate and long-lasting. According to Dr. Kyle D. Pruett, a clinical professor of psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine, the "single most devastating event" in a young child's life is the loss of a parent through divorce. And while infants and toddlers are too young to understand what's happening, they can sense the tension and stress that comes with it. This can lead to problems with sleeping and eating, as well as increased irritability and crying. In some cases, infants and toddlers may also regress in their development, such as reverting back to bedwetting or thumb sucking.
How Divorce Affects School-Age Children
For school-age children, the effects of divorce can be both immediate and long-lasting. According to Dr. Kyle D. Pruett, a clinical professor of psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine, the "single most devastating event" in a young child's life is the loss of a parent through divorce. And while school-age children are old enough to understand what's happening, they may have difficulty accepting it. This can lead to problems with sleeping and eating, as well as increased anxiety and depression. In some cases, school-age children may also struggle academically or socially as a result of the divorce.
How Divorce Affects teenagers
The effects of divorce on teenagers can be both immediate and long-lasting. According to Dr. Kyle D. Pruett, a clinical professor of psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine, the "single most devastating event" in a young child's life is the loss of a parent through divorce. And while teenagers are old enough to understand what's happening, they may have difficulty accepting it. This can lead to problems with sleeping and eating, as well as increased anxiety and depression. In some cases, teenagers may also struggle academically or socially as a result of the divorce."
How Divorce affects young adults
Looking back, the effects of a divorce on a young adult are numerous. Young adulthood is a phase of life when many transitions and dramatic changes are already occurring; having to deal with the fallout of a parental divorce can be hugely disruptive and emotionally taxing, negatively impacting various aspects of life all at once. But while it’s easy to focus on the negative, there’s also often a lack of awareness over how resilient young adults can be in learning to cope with difficult situations such as this. Now that you know more about how divorce affects young adults, why not reach out and have an honest discussion with someone who has shared these experiences? Not only will engaging in conversations like these help raise an even greater level of public understanding around this issue, but it may also provide invaluable comfort and support for those going through similar struggles. So if this is something you or someone close to you is dealing with today, don’t hesitate to start talking--we’re here!
My son actually was just thirteen and I had young adults at the time of my divorce. However, I was so hooked in my mental breakdown after 20 plus years with my ex . I didn't realize the needs of my adult children. We have used various methods of coping with the trauma and would be glad to talk to you about it. please reach out, you're not alone
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