A new survey conducted by the family law organisation, Resolution, has found that nearly half of kids whose parents divorce found that the relationship with their father deteriorated after.

 

Looking at teens and young adults aged between 14 and 22 who had experienced family break-ups, the results found that while the relationship with the mum and other members of the extended family remain largely the same, the relationship with the father can worsen over time.


 

Bob Greig, the founder of the single fathers organisation, Only Dads, pointed out that nearly half of children reported that their relationship with their father worsened after divorce.

 

“Although not surprising, [it] is always heartbreaking to hear. It doesn’t need to be like this,” he said.

 

“The reasons are well known. Some dads walk away. Other dads and their children are prevented from having a meaningful relationship because mum, for whatever reason, doesn’t encourage or even allow one to flourish. Other dads struggle with confidence and health issues post-divorce – these reasons are not perhaps not so well known.”

 

 

However, staying together for the sake of the kids is not considered the best option, with many of those surveyed saying they would prefer their parents get divorced than stay together when they are unhappy.

 

Children also want to be included in the process more, with 60% feeling like they weren't part of the decisions, although 88% believe it is important children don't feel like they have to choose between parents.

 

Speaking about the results of the survey, Jo Edwards, Resolution’s chair, said: “Despite the common myth that it’s better to stay together for the sake of the kids, most children would rather their parents’ divorce than remain in an unhappy relationship.”

 

“Being exposed to conflict and uncertainty about the future are what’s most damaging for children, not the fact of divorce itself. This means it is essential that parents act responsibly, to shelter their children from adult disagreements and take appropriate action to communicate with their children throughout this process, and make them feel involved in key decisions, such as where they will live after the divorce.”

40 Shares

Latest

Trending