While a divorce is difficult for both spouses, it is even more difficult for children to endure. Even if children are not showing signs of emotion, it is likely that he or she is still experiencing hardship. Some children may cope through anger, while others may cry. Regardless of whether children are exhibiting their emotions, it is important to have them speak with a therapist.
Here are some signs indicating that a child would benefit from speaking with a therapist:
- Those close to the child have expressed concern
- Child’s behavior is interfering with the family dynamic
- Child’s behavior is impacting their normal routine
- Child requests to speak to a therapist
- You are frustrated with your child’s behavior
- Lack of sleeping or eating
- Regularly in a sad mood
- Loss of interest in friends, hobbies, or extracurricular activities
- Fighting with peers
- Decline in performance at school
- Trouble concentrating or staying focused
- Consistent lying
- Engaging in risky behavior
- Weight gain or loss
- Stealing
- Rude or disrespectful attitude
If you are going through a divorce and recognize any of these signs in your child, it is important for them to speak with a therapist. It is very uncommon for a child in need to ask to speak with a therapist, which is why it is important to take note of any changes in his or her behavior, especially if it is becoming self-destructive.
Ending a marriage is not easy, especially when children are involved, but it may be necessary. The lawyers at Larry McCord & Associates, LLC have experience representing spouses in all aspects of matrimonial and family law litigation, including child custody arrangements. The complexities in divorce and custody cases can be overwhelming and emotional. Please contact Larry McCord and Associates, LLC at (631) 643-3084 to learn more about the firm’s services and approach to child support disputes.