It’s not uncommon for parents who are unhappy with their marriage to remain in the relationship solely for their children. Although couples who put off divorce until the kids are grown are well meaning, doing so can cause more harm than good. In fact, children can benefit from divorce or legal separation if their parents are committed to co-parenting with each other. Below, the family law team at Guillien Van Nuland, LLC in La Crosse, WI, explores a few positive ways divorce can affect children.

3 Ways Children Can Benefit From Divorce

1. More Independence

Children of divorce tend to be more independent than those who come from traditional two-parent households. Disciplining and protecting kids with an independent streak poses its challenges, but this trait can also be a gift later in life. Independent children can become successful, self-sufficient adults who go on to do big things.

2. More Emotional Intelligence

Children who witness the breakdown of their parents’ marriage can become more emotionally intelligent for it. They learn how to navigate tricky disputes, and they always strive to find meaning in their parents’ moods and behaviors. This can lead to more curiosity, compassion, and empathy, which are all qualities that will serve them well in the future.  

3. More Ambition

When parents divorce, children begin seeing them as two separate and distinct individuals, rather than one parental unit. This can foster increased ambition because they want to impress both parents equally. One parent may be more impressed with academic achievements while the other is proud when their kid scores the winning goal, so the child will start trying to succeed in everything. However, divorced parents need to be aware of this increased desire to please them, so they can reassure their children they are already proud.

There is no doubt that divorce can have a devastating emotional impact on children; however, it is possible to transform the negative impact into a positive one over time, especially if both parents are committed to doing so. If you have decided divorce is best for your family, turn to Guillien Van Nuland, LLC in La Crosse, WI. You can learn more about this family law firm by visiting the website. To schedule an initial consultation with a compassionate attorney, call (608) 782-4411.