You and your ex-spouse may not be the only ones in need of counseling after a divorce. The little ones in the household may need the extra help, too.
Here are three common ways a child may react to a Maryland divorce and when to seek professional help regarding these behaviors:
- Regression
It’s common for young children whose parents are going through a divorce to regress to earlier behaviors. Don’t worry too much if your recently potty trained child starts having accidents again. It’s likely a temporary setback that will right itself once the child adjusts to the new normal.
When to Worry: Regression should be temporary. If you don’t start seeing improvements months after the divorce, you may want to consult a professional. - Separation Anxiety
This is especially common in preschoolers and elementary-aged children who worry that their parents may stop loving them the same way they stopped loving each other. This fear can lead to clinginess. Reassure them that you love them and always will.
When to Worry: If your elementary child is having trouble at school because he or she cannot cope with separation anxiety months after the divorce, talk to the school counselor on ways to help the child adapt. - Hostility
A child who is confused and upset by the situation may turn to negative behaviors, including acting out against the parents whom he feels caused the disruption.
When to Worry: When spiteful words turn into physical aggression, it’s time to get help before violence breaks out in the home.
For more tips related to your Maryland divorce case; call our experienced Maryland family and divorce attorneys at 800-875-9700.