by Diamond Channing

Created on: August 12, 2010

Did you know that over half of all marriages today end up in divorce court? Transitioning into a new form of family with either a single parent, a step family or a blended household can be a stressful or even painful experience for teens and parents alike. Divorce can lead to changes in family finances, in where you live, children's school and changes in friendships just to mention a few. Just one of these transitions can cause a great amount of conflict and stress for a teenager, but all together they can seem overwhelming.

Divorce is difficult enough, however when there are children involved it can become very complicated. Parents are faced with the task of helping their children through the difficult transitional period at a time when they feel immobilized and helpless. Children will react differently to divorce depending on their age and what developmental stage they are in. Teenagers are already dealing with a stressful time in their life with just being a teen and the changes and conflicts they are faced with, but then the family divorce adds even more strain for them.

One of the best indicators of how well a teenager will adjust to the divorce has to do with whether or not the ex-spouses support each other in their continuing relationship as parents. Be sure you take care of yourself as you are concentrating your time and energy on your children. Accept offers of help from family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Teenagers do best if mom and dad respect each other after the divorce. Do not vent about your ex-spouse to or in front of your teenager. Instead vent to a friend. Support groups are very beneficial for parents as this gives them the opportunity to vent and talk about things you should not with your teen.

Let your teen know that you support them if they feel the need to obtain counseling. It can be easier sometimes for teens to talk to someone other than their parents. If one of the parents moved away after the divorce encourage your teen to keep in close touch through e-mail, writing and regular phone calls. Keep the ex-spouse who does not have the majority of custody time informed about your teens progress in school and their other activities. Both parents should promote regular contact with the non-custodial parent.

Some tips for announcing the divorce to your teenager are: tell them as soon as possible, both mom and dad should participate in this conversation, prepare them for what will come, make sure you let them know the divorce is no fault of their own and let them know they are loved and valued by both parents.

Your teen will need time as well as your understanding. Every teen needs to be reassured during this transitional period. Let them know both of you will always be there for them and then follow through with any promises.

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