Long-Term Effects of Divorce on Children (PDF)

[CZBZ]

Long-term Effects of Divorce on Children

Published by North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service

"...In the same 10-year follow-up study (Wallerstein, 1989), children who adjusted well had:


     A mother-child relationship characterized by mutual respect, consideration, and a mother who had reorganized her life and “had a life.”


     Children who had moved to live with their father had a similar relationship with their father as described in 1 above. Father had set limits on his professional development so he could have a relationship with his children.


     A positive relationship with a set of grandparents who stayed out of the parental conflict and identified and met children’s needs.


     A history of stability in the post-divorce family arrangements. Organized households with rules and clear expectations were important.


     Seen a good, healthy, and positive adult couple relationship between at least one parent and a new partner..."

Click HERE to retrieve 6-page document

[RB22]

I love Judith Wallerstein's  The Unexpected Legacy of Divorce; A 25 year study.

She took the same kids and followed them for 25 years at intervals.  Her last study surprised even herself. Some of the kids had barely any relationship with one parent.... usually the one who left.  Most of them said they would take the parent who stayed into their home if they needed to... the other parent they wouldn't live with.

Gives a whole new meaning to the joke... be nice to your kids.. they pick your nursing home.   

It is a very comprehensive book on situations that happen AFTER divorce and how the kids tend to cope.. not all good.. but eye opening to say the least.

Hugs,

RB