There are varying opinions on whether or not parents should stay together for the kids. In earlier years, divorce was not common and many parents were enduring miserable marriages. These days we are realizing that staying in a conflicted marriage is likely more traumatic on the children than divorce would be. That said, there are still people who believe that staying together for the kids is the only option.
Staying in a marriage that is unhappy can result in emotional and psychological scars for the children. This is because conflict leads to feelings of stress and instability. Constant misery and fighting can actually show children that marriage is something to be dreaded or avoided.
Here are a few aspects of marriage that rub off on your kids when you and your spouse are in a healthy relationship:
- Happiness
- Harmony
- Cooperation
- Respect
- Joy
Many of these elements are absent when parents are unhappy and staying together for the sake of the children. Whether you want them to or not, your children can sense your unhappiness. Not only can they feel it, they will likely be confused by it and could even blame themselves.
Children who grow up blaming themselves for their parent’s unhappiness can have lingering guilt and anxiety. In many ways, these scars can be much the same, or much worse than children whose parents ended up divorcing.
As you consider you choices regarding divorce, it is important to align yourself with an experienced and compassionate family attorney in Vancouver WA. Click here to contact Lambert Law Office today.