How Divorce Affects Children

Not only does divorce affects a child academic development but it also affects their emotional development as well. Divorce has a great influence on a child's self-confidence. Most of these changes are due to a change in the way that a child views him or herself. Wallerstein stated that divorce leaves a lasting imprint on children which make them unhappy, miserable with lots of uncertainties that lingers throughout their adult stage (Wallerstein et al. 2001). Children often believe that they are the ones who initiated the conflict and made it end in a divorce. Also, they may blame themselves and think because of their actions their parents no longer want to be part of their lives anymore, so they leave.
Another area of emotional development

in children that are affected by divorce is that of emotional security. These children are more likely to be depressed and insecure—even after they are grown up (Ben-Ami and Baker 2012). Because of their parent's separation, children tend to be always unhappy, depressed, agitated and this progress as they get older. To add, these children may feel a sense of emptiness and loneliness when their parents split from divorce. He or she is often scared that they will be left alone by their mother and father fearing what would be their next option or outcome. Children need love, care, and support from both parents in order to grow emotionally. This will decrease the pressure, stressors, and anxiety that comes along with divorce. In cases where children have had setbacks with their emotional security, they are at a higher risk of having unexpected lashes or in other instances they may just crawl into their shells. Hence, this is done to prevent any form of possible social interaction.
In addition, divorce negatively impacts children social development. They spend most of their time on the streets or in their favorite spot most times this tends to be their bedrooms. Children become more self-dependent and withdrawn from their mother and father. Therefore, they feel the need to fend for themselves. These kids then take it up on their own to finance and provide for themselves. They then turn to deviant activities to finance their needs. This includes stealing, selling their bodies, and drug and substance abuse. In addition, they turn to their peers for advice and assistance to deal with their parent's separation.
Divorce has a negative influence on a child's emotions, academic performance, and their social growth. It is imperative that parents do whatever it takes to keep their family intact to prevent devastation in their children's lives. When a child has a healthy mind free of disturbances, he thrives best, always and social and he grows at ease.