“Ice cream may be messy,
but divorce doesn’t need to be!”
From custody battles to parental alienation, divorce can wreak havoc on children!
There are so many support groups for parents going through a divorce. But what about the groups dedicated to supporting the kids? Insert “Banana Splits” here. You might prefer chocolate ice cream, vanilla, or (our favorite) the wild and fruity strawberry! Either way, they all need to learn how to live in the same bowl!
How Divorce Affects Children and Teens
We created “Banana Splits”; a group developed to provide support for children and teens of divorce to recognize you’re not alone!
The effects of divorce on children can widely vary. But, children from divorced families may experience behavioral and social problems due to a change in the family dynamics. As a result, this disruption to their lives can bring up many different issues. These may include acting out, poor academic performance, loss of interest in social activities, difficulty adapting to change. Or, feelings of guilt and mistrust. Whether they are four years old or 16 years old, adjusting to this new “normal” post-divorce can be challenging and lonely.
Also, divorce may increase the risk for mental health problems in children and adolescents. In fact, regardless of age, gender, and culture, children of divorced parents can experience increased psychological problems. (D’Onofrio B, Emery R. Parental divorce or separation and children’s mental health. World Psychiatry. 2019;18(1):100–101. doi:10.1002/wps.20590)
Besides mental health problems, children and adolescents may experience an increase in behavior problems and conflict with peers following a divorce. Transitioning from one parent’s house to the other parent’s house can create a disruption in their world. Thus, resulting in emotional breakdowns and increased impulsive behavior.
Teens with divorced parents have a higher likelihood of engaging in risk-taking behaviors. These may include substance use, self-harm, and becoming sexually active earlier.
What They Will Learn in Banana Splits
Led by a clinically trained licensed therapist, children and teens will have a safe and supportive environment to learn. So, they will understand they are not alone in the messy world of divorce.
What They Will Do
- Learn positive coping strategies
- Develop problem-solving skills
- Improve communication skills
- Explore family dynamics and blended families
- Learn about self-care and healthy relationships
- Develop self-awareness and improve self-esteem
- Confide in others with similar family dynamics
Studies might show that most children and teens recover from a divorce in the long term. However, research indicates it is the family conflict and parental alienation that can cause long-term psychological effects. In fact, they can even carry the emotional effects well into adulthood if not addressed early on.
At Therapyology, our therapists are experienced in navigating the world of divorce. And, helping support families throughout the process. Whether you’re in the early stages of divorce, separation, or beginning to blend families together. We understand each new phase can bring about new challenges. So, we’re here to support you each step of the way. Our “Banana Splits” group for children and teens is one more way we can move towards our vision of empowering the next generation. And, building a better future for our youth!
Start Therapy for Children of Divorce in West Bloomfield, MI & San Francisco, CA
You and your child deserve support during the difficult transitions that divorce can bring. Our West Bloomfield MI, therapy practice has caring therapists who can help you along the way. To start your counseling journey, follow these simple steps:
- Request an appointment
- Meet with one of our caring therapists
- Start therapy for children of divorce
Other Services Offered at Therapyology
Therapy for children of divorce isn’t the only service we offer in our West Bloomfield therapy practice. Other mental health services Therapyology provides include camp in California, online therapy, grief counseling, therapy for children, trauma-informed therapy, and therapy for teens. We also offer parent coaching, groups and workshops, and Camp Therapyology.
