Divorce in Pennsylvania: Can divorce actually benefit children?
Although children may initially struggle with their parent’s divorce, this process is associated with several long-term benefits.
When parents in Pennsylvania end their marriage, they often worry about how their decision to get a divorce will affect their children. Although it may take some time for parents and their children to get used to a new parenting plan after a divorce settlement is reached, children may actually benefit from the dissolution of their parents’ marriage long-term.
We offer a free half-hour initial consultation to explore your case and our abilities.
How divorce can benefit children
There are several reasons why children can benefit from their parents’ divorce. According to The Huffington Post, these include some of the following:
- When two people divorce and they become happier as individuals, their children will likely become happier as well.
- Parents who end their marriage because they are not satisfied with their relationship demonstrate to their children that they do not have to stay in an unhealthy relationship.
- When parents are able to acquire a joint child custody arrangement after their divorce is finalized, each is more likely to become involved in their children’s lives.
Additionally, when a couple decides to end their marriage, the tension is likely to dissolve out of their household and their children may become more relaxed.
Children recover rapidly
Although children may ultimately benefit from divorce, this does not necessarily mean that they will not have a difficult time adjusting to this change in their lives. However, research shows that children are likely to make a rapid recovery after they receive the news that their parents are getting a divorce.
According to a study conducted at the University of Virginia, those working on this research discovered that many children experience short-term negative effects, like disbelief, anger, shock and anxiety, after their parents get divorced. However, this study also discovered that these reactions typically diminish or disappear altogether within two years after the divorce occurs and that only a small number of children experience these adverse emotions for longer.
Helping children cope
To ensure that children are able to recover quickly from the effects of their parents’ divorce and that they are ultimately able to realize the benefits associated with this legal process, WebMD suggests that parents should avoid confiding in their children about their concerns relating to finances or any disagreements they might have with their ex-spouse. Divorcing parents should also refrain from speaking negatively about their former spouse in front of their children and avoid introducing major changes into their children’s lives for as long as possible.
Additionally, divorcing parents in Pennsylvania may benefit from working with an attorney throughout the duration of their divorce who can help them navigate through this often complex and emotionally trying legal process. If you and your spouse are contemplating divorce, contact an attorney in your area to find out how you can protect your personal interests and the best interests of your children.
Keywords: divorce, children, custody
