Support groups would provide this opportunity, as well as acknowledge that divorce is an ongoing social and emotional process. Issues for nonresidential fathers may only be just beginning when they leave the courtroom with their divorce decrees. Domestic relations courts, counseling centers, and other social service agencies should consider instituting support groups as a means of maximizing contact between nonresidential fathers and their children. Children of divorcing parents would also benefit from participation in groups in which they may share their feelings and experiences about the divorce. Because children do not have the skills to develop such support systems on their own, they should be presented with easily accessible and stigma-free support structures.
Divorce is extremely traumatic for children.
Schools and social service agencies should work together to develop programs in which children may discuss their feelings and explore their evolving relationships with both parents.