Divorce is never easy for couples in California, especially those with children. Many opt to stay together for the sake of their children, believing it is better for them to live in a two-parent home. Yet, are there times when divorcing can actually benefit your kids?
Divorce may be good for your family
American culture endorses the notion that divorce is always bad. However, some researchers have shown that splitting up can lead to a positive situation for the entire family. The following common situations can lead to a divorce that is good for children and parents alike:
- Reduced exposure to stressful situations can lead to reduced conflict
- An opportunity to improve the co-parenting relationship
- Increased individual fulfillment for parents
- Positive role modeling leading to healthy relationship behaviors
Although you can never fully eliminate conflict, reducing overall exposure to high-stress situations allows everyone to take a step back and think of solutions that everyone can live with. Doing so can, in turn, lead to better co-parenting as you remove some of the emotional components and focus on your children’s well-being. A somewhat unexpected benefit involves happier parents who can better achieve their goals. When parents are happier, they can often better attend to their children. Finally, staying in a bad relationship makes children believe unhealthy relationships are normal. Parents can turn their divorce into a positive experience by showing how to resolve bad situations.
Dissolving your marriage
Divorce is a complex situation because it involves different variables, including property division, child support and similar issues. Before deciding on a complete split, try to work out your differences with a qualified professional before deciding to divorce. Mediation and consultation throughout the divorce process and afterward can make the process easier.
The most important issue to consider if you have children is providing a supportive environment. Parents should strive to work out problems before choosing divorce, but if you have exhausted all avenues, continuing to get psychological counseling and additional support can turn this negative experience into a positive one that will benefit all involved.