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Essay on Effects of Divorce on Children
According to researches the initiators for a divorce or separation are in most cases women (Goodman, 1993). Usually men are surprised when their wives tell them that they want to get divorced. The socio-economic analysis makes clear that the risk of getting divorced is lower for persons in rural areas, for families with children younger than six years, for families with a high household income, and for families with a low personal income of the wife.
The divorce of parents significantly undermines their children’s sense of security and stability. The two people upon whom the child is dependent are no longer equally accessible to the child and the foundation of the child’s world is splintered.Regardless of age, race, sex or religion, divorce has devastating, often long-term, consequences. The immediate effects of divorce, such as hurt, anger and confusion, are present in both children and adults (Coogler, 1998).
Effects of Divorce on Children
Divorce affects children differently, depending on their gender, age and stage of development. Their world, their security and their stability seem to fall apart when their parents divorce. Over 60 percent of couples seeking a divorce have children still living at home (Booth, 1999). For these children, the break up of the family begins a period of unparalleled stress and psychological pain. The first acute shock is often followed by intense fears, anger and grieving. Consequently, they may withdraw and lose interest in hobbies, school, friends, and the general enjoyment of life.
Children of any age have difficulty expressing hurt feelings and sadness to parents who are themselves angry and grieving. Responsible parents will develop a parenting plan that coordinates visitation, maintains financial obligations, and takes time to deal with children’s feelings in each state of the divorce process.Many children react in different ways with the onset of divorce. Some will be extremely sad and may show signs of depression, and even sleeplessness......
