When parents’ divorce, it can be difficult for the whole family. For teens, divorce can be particularly difficult. Teenagers are more likely to cope with the effects of divorce by engaging in risky behaviors. Drug use and early sexual activity are more common among teens of divorce than their peers. If you’re going through a divorce, it’s important to know what type of things you may see from your teen.
Common Effects
Most kids are resilient and don’t exhibit psychological problems.1 However, even if your child is not exhibiting symptoms of serious mental illness, they may still be struggling.
Common impacts of divorce on teens include:
Academic problems, like poor grades
Trouble sleeping
Increased stress
Sadness or anger at one parent or both
Defiance and non-compliance
Depression
Behavior problems at school
Trouble getting along with siblings, peers, and parents
Difficulty forming intimate relationships
Risky Behaviors
Risky behaviors are also more likely in teens whose parents are divorced. In fact, the risk that a teen will engage in risky behavior increases by a factor of 1.5 to 2 in teens of divorce.
Examples of risky behavior teens may engage in:
 Substance abuse
 Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts
 Early sexual activity
How to Help Your Teen
Although divorce will be tough for you and everyone else in the family, it’s essential to do your best to be present with your teen. Talking to your teen and showing genuine interest in their activities can often go a long way. Think of ways that allow your teen to feel close to you as you go through this rough time together.
Talk to your teen and encourage them to share worries, fears, and frustrations. If you aren’t sure of the way things will unfold, admit the uncertainty to your teen. If you’re putting a house up for sale or aren’t sure where you will move, acknowledge how difficult such uncertainty can be.
Do: Don’t:
Have honest communication about changes in the family
Offer safe space for them to express their emotions
Make sure they feel comfortable asking questions
Encourage their relationship with their other parent
Allow them to weigh in on decisions about their lives
Offer consistent affection and support
Attend their extra-curricular activities
Maintain a consistent, predictable schedule
Be consistent with rules and discipline
 Model appropriate behavior
For more information visit www.verywellfamily.com