Waiting for Divorce Until the Kids Grow Up – Are You Doing More Harm Than Good?

 Posted on August 17, 2017 in Divorce

When your marriage is failing, and you know divorce is the next step, you may stop to consider how your children will respond. If you determine that they simply cannot handle growing up in a broken home – perhaps because of a disability, a sensitive demeanor, or a rough upbringing – you may be tempted to put off the inevitable. Are you really doing your children a favor though, or are you doing more harm than good? The answer may rest in the underlying issues of your marriage. Learn more with help from the following information.

Domestic Violence and Children

If there is any marriage in which divorce should not be delayed, it is one in which domestic violence is present. Violence of any sort can have a negative impact on the growth and development of a child, and it may also increase the child’s risk for several mental health conditions, such as depression, aggression, and anxiety. Furthermore, children may ultimately be at risk for violence themselves, even if they are not currently the target. If you are a victim of violence, do not wait. Get help immediately. Seek out services tailored especially for victims and contact an experienced family law attorney for assistance with your divorce.

Contentious Marriages and Children

One of the more recent discoveries in child development is the impact that contentiousness can have on children. These marriages may not be violent, but parents may argue frequently. Yelling, name-calling, or even just contempt and disdain toward one another may also be a part of daily life. Until recently, researchers were not aware of how the effects of these situations compared to the effects of divorce; but they now know that such toxic environments can actually be more detrimental to a child’s development than divorce (provided the parents can end the marriage amicably).

When Waiting is Feasible

If the parents have minor arguments, struggle with seeing eye-to-eye, or otherwise have a fairly benign marital relationship, they may not face any adverse issues by waiting for divorce. However, it is important to remember that life is relatively short, so why waste it with someone you no longer want to be with or love? Instead, consider alternative resolution options, such as mediation or an amicable divorce. Find ways to work together to ensure your child’s future and best interests are protected, despite the divorce, and go after the life you envision.

Contact Our Hillside, IL Divorce Lawyer

You do not have to face divorce alone. Instead, you can contact the Law Office of Vincent C. Machroli, P.C. and obtain the skilled legal assistance you need and deserve. Committed to helping you navigate the divorce process in the manner that works best for your family, our Hillside, IL divorce lawyer will be by your side, every step of the way. Schedule a personalized, no-charge consultation to learn more. Call 708-449-7400 today.

Sources:

http://nj1015.com/719877/

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-divorce-bad-for-children/

https://www.livescience.com/6648-divorce-bad-kids.html

http://www.nctsn.org/content/children-and-domestic-violence