Even though adults may have the final say, children's needs should be heard and considered. Guilt Many children assume they, in some way, were responsible for the loss of their parent. These feelings of unworthiness can cause children to behave in different ways. Children may misbehave because they are angry with themselves. To soothe a child's feeling of guilt, adults must visit with the children right away, discuss the changes, and provide them with straightforward, non-judgmental information about what is happening.
Guilt can also consume a child if they feel disloyal to one biological parent.
Often the child who likes or enjoys the company of their stepparent feels disloyal to their biological parent. The accompanying guilt may be a contributing factor in a child's behavior toward a stepparent and can cause the child to push the stepparent away. Loyalty Issues Children develop a deep sense of commitment to family, especially to their parents, and are taught from birth to love and respect them. A child's identity comes from his or her mother and father, thus nearly always creating a very strong attachment to both parents. After a divorce this can be difficult and confusing for children.