Things Parents Should NOT Do During a Divorce
Divorce can be a complex and emotional time. The situation can get even more complex and emotional when children are involved. Parents need to put the well-being of their children first during the divorce process. While there is no perfect way to handle the divorce process as a parent, certain mistakes can worsen the situation and harm the well-being of children. In this article, we share some of the things parents should avoid during the divorce process to ensure a smooth and healthy process.
- Using Children as Messengers
One of the biggest issues adults face during divorce is communication, which can be contentious and unpleasant. However, parents need to find a suitable way to communicate with each other and avoid using their children to pass messages. Using children as messengers can place an undue burden on them. It forces them into the middle of adult conflicts, which can place undue stress on them. If you and the other parent cannot communicate face-to-face, you can communicate through channels like emails, texts, or parenting apps.
- Speaking Ill of the Other Parent in Front of Children
Emotions can run high during the divorce process. Divorce can leave parents feeling resentful and hostile. It is not uncommon to find one parent bad mouthing the other parent in front of their children. It is crucial not to badmouth the other parent in front of the children. When a parent says negative things about the other parent in front of their children, the children carry the emotional burden of having heard those things. Speaking ill of the parent in front of the children can lead to anxiety, stress, and confusion. It can make children feel as if they have to choose between the two parents.
- Assuming Litigation Is the Only Option
Many divorcing couples think that litigation is the only way to resolve matters. However, this is not the case, and divorcing parents should avoid assuming that litigation is the only option. Relying solely on litigation can escalate disputes and create a more adversarial environment. This can be damaging for children. The adversarial nature of litigation can take a significant emotional toll on parents and children. There are alternatives to litigation that can help resolve divorce-related matters, including mediation, collaboration, and negotiation. Not only can these options help save money and time, but they can also be less distressing for children compared to litigation.
- Ignoring the Input of Children
It is a huge mistake to disregard children’s feelings and contributions, especially if they are older. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that children should not be left to decide the terms of a divorce.
- Using Children as Emotional Support
Feeling the urge to vent or seek comfort is natural, but you should not rely on your child for emotional support. Children aren’t equipped to handle adult emotions. Instead, rely on your friends, family, or a therapist for emotional support.
Contact a Lakeland Divorce Attorney
For legal help, contact our skilled Lakeland divorce attorney at Darla K. Snead, P.L.
