Dealing with Divorce

Behavioral Changes

Every child will react differently to a separation or divorce. Here are some general guidelines from the AAP on behavioral changes to expect:

Children under 5 years of age may:

• Be afraid of others
• Not want to be separated from one parent
• Have problems eating or sleeping
• Have trouble with toilet training
• Have outbursts or tantrums
• Blame themselves for the divorce -- especially children between 3 and 5 years of age

School-age children may:

• Be moody or angry
• Have problems eating or sleeping
• Seem distracted and faraway
• Not do as well in school
• Have tantrums
• Be more aggressive or angry
• Express their sadness and wishes for parents to get back together
• Worry about divided loyalty to their parents