How a Divorce Can Impact Your Children in Florida

By Matthew A. Benzion

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Divorce

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Last Modified on Dec 22, 2025

Divorce is often a traumatic event for the children involved. If you are wondering how a divorce can impact your children in Florida, we can explain how divorce can influence how children think, feel, and relate to others, as well as how it can impact your relationship with your children. By educating yourself, you can provide support and guidance to your children during and after divorce.

The family law attorneys at Benzion Law understand how difficult it can be for parents to continue providing physical and emotional care to their children in the midst of divorce. Our team of family law attorneys can help you overcome this challenge by providing you with tools that can help ease the transition for you and your children. We are here to help our clients inside and outside the courtroom.

How Children React to Divorce

The divorce rate in the United States ranges between 40% and 60%, and for children of divorcing parents, it can be a big challenge to adjust to such a significant change. Approximately 25% of children whose parents go through divorce experience lasting behavioral and emotional problems.

The most relevant research regarding how children react to divorce often comes from academics researching topics in child psychology, parenting styles, and the socioeconomic impact of divorce. Many children often internalize their conflicting emotions before and after divorce. However, some children may become extroverted and begin acting out of character when they learn their parents are divorcing.

General emotions children report experiencing during and after a divorce include confusion, sadness, guilt, and anxiety. Many children also report feeling as if they have to choose between their parents, and in unhealthy family systems, parents may reinforce patterns that confuse children. Anger and resentment are also reported by some children who feel as if one or both parents are causing the breakup of the family.

What You Can Do to Help Your Children Deal With Divorce

Psychological counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and listening to your child are often three of the most effective methods available to parents who want to help their children deal with divorce. One of the most important things a parent can do is get their child to express how they are feeling about the separation. This mode of expression can be through conversation, art, or other forms of creativity.

Children also need to spend time with both parents to ensure they do not feel as if they are taking sides during and after a divorce. Parents can help avoid this problem by behaving amicably toward each other during child visitation sessions and other interactions. Also, parents can help their children live healthier lives by not including their children in conversations about the divorce, including those regarding alimony, child support, and the distribution of assets.

Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Florida

Taking the initiative to hire a divorce lawyer in Florida can help you feel more at ease during the process and ensure your child’s well-being. When you’re discussing the terms of a divorce, it’s easy for emotions to flare up and for things to become contentious.

If you and your co-parent are in conflict, it can significantly affect your children’s mood and behavior, as well as your relationship with them. Our legal team can help ensure your divorce remains amicable and on track.

By retaining a divorce attorney in Florida, you can ensure that you are doing everything in your power to protect yourself and your children from unanticipated issues that may arise during a divorce.

FAQs

How Does a High-Conflict Divorce Affect Children?

A high-conflict divorce may affect children psychologically, emotionally, and physically. Many children react differently to divorce, but high-conflict divorce cases often cause children to feel as if they have to choose one parent over the other. Also, many children face issues related to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder during a contested divorce in Florida.

At What Age Is a Child Most Affected by Divorce?

Children are affected by divorce no matter their age, but those between ages 6 and 12 often exhibit signs of distress during and after a divorce. Younger children may not know how to respond to the emotions they experience, and their behavior may fluctuate during divorce proceedings. Many children may benefit from speaking to a counselor or a child psychologist regarding their thoughts and emotions during a divorce.

Why Is Moving Out of the Family Home a Mistake in a Divorce?

Moving out of the family home before or during a divorce can be considered a mistake because it can expose you to financial difficulties and create a sense of instability for your children. Your children may also become emotionally distant if you are not around as often, which could affect custody determinations.

How Can I Help My Child Overcome the Stress of Divorce?

You can help your child overcome the stress of divorce by talking to them about it. Many children overcome trauma and stress by engaging in healthy behaviors, such as sports, creative activities, and developing friendships with their peers. All children respond to divorce differently, but as a parent, if you provide your children with stability, emotional availability, and open communication, then you can likely see your children thrive after divorce.

Contact Benzion Law Today

Divorce is difficult for everyone involved, but most particularly children. Younger children may not have healthy coping skills to express their confusion, anger, and frustration while their parents are going through a divorce. A lawyer can help you find outside resources, such as mental health counselors, psychologists, and family therapists who can help you and your children heal after divorce.

Reaching out to a divorce attorney can be intimidating if you are not familiar with the legal system. However, one of the most beneficial things you can do for your children is hire a divorce attorney to ensure your divorce goes as smoothly as possible. Contact Benzion Law today to schedule a consultation to discuss the options available to you for getting through a divorce while ensuring your children’s well-being.