Divorce is one of the most painful and stressful events for adults to go through. It is natural for parents to worry about the damage that divorce may do on their children. If you are in this position, you are not alone. However, to stay together for your children, in fear of the damage it may cause could be unwarranted.
Is it better to stay with your spouse for your kids?
Staying together offers short term solutions
When you stay together, according to Psychology Today, you do offer some short-term benefits. Children thrive in families with routine. When you break that routine and structure, it can lead to fear and uncertainty. Children may have issues with anger, guilt and other emotional problems. Some kids may lash out and become disruptive. These problems may only be temporary, however.
Splitting up teaches your children to choose happiness
When you stay together for your kids, you may stunt your child’s ability to create productive adult lives later. Children pick up on the tension between their parents and can feel the unhappiness in the relationship. When you divorce, you can still provide a safe environment for your children. You can remain warm and affectionate while cooperating with the other parent. To see you decide to be happy is a lesson for your children.
After one to two years, however, children will begin to bounce back. Most studies show that your kids can acclimate and adjust to split parenting. To stay together means that your children have more exposure to a tense, if not volatile relationship.