How to Talk to Your Kids About Their Other Parent During a Divorce
One of the hardest parts of divorce is navigating conversations about your ex with your children. Even if you have legitimate grievances, speaking negatively about their other parent can deeply affect your kids, causing them to internalize criticism and confusion. Here’s how to handle these conversations with care, promoting your child’s emotional health and resilience. The Psychological Impact of Criticism Children see themselves as part of both parents. When one parent criticizes the other, the child often interprets this as a criticism of them. According to family therapists, this can cause emotional distress, leading to feelings of insecurity, guilt, and divided loyalty. Psychological Insight: Studies show that children exposed to parental conflict and negative talk about one parent are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Best Practice: Neutral or Positive Language No matter how strained your relationship with your ex, it’s crucial to speak about the...