Risk and Resilience in Children Coping with Parental Divorce

Matthew Yopak

In this day and age divorce is not an uncommon happening. An average of 45% of marriages end in divorce. In these cases 80% of the children end up living with their biological mother. Many studies have shown that children from divorced families to fair worse in life then other families. But in most cases children from divorced families develop strong coping strategies and strength their resilience to other negative changes around them. This, however, is usually only found in children who either have a strong parental connection, a strong peer-relationship, or other outside factors to help give added support when needed. Even though this is possible children from divorced families do suffer from a higher chance of of anxiety, aggressive behavior, and other both internal and externalized disorders. But these factors don't effect all children, most reports show that 75%-80% of children show great resiliency and coupled with a strong support group often lead these children to have no last disorders. 

The high point where these types of behaviors tend to be shown more right after the initial divorce. One factor that greatly effects whether or not a child shows this disorders is how the parents conduct themselves during the divorce. 20%-25% of children witness an aggressive separation which escalates the chance for them to be negativity effected. As I stated earlier their is a greater chance for the mother to have custody of the children. But studies have shown then male children when living with their father adjust easier when they have this paternal connection. Joint-custody divorces often help the child the most in regards to getting the support from both parental figures, when appropriate. Overall the way the parents conduct themselves. The more the parents keep open a safe line of communication with the children the transition becomes less stressful and potently less harmful to the child.    

Risk and Resilience in Children Coping with Parental Divorce (2010) Retrieved April 15, 2013, from http://dujs.dartmouth.edu/spring-2010/risk-and-resilience-in-children-coping-with-parental-divorce#.UWy1DrWsiSo