And eventually, many children of divorced parents have to deal with one or both parents dating and remarrying - often with the blending of new families. Children may respond to the stress of divorce with strong emotions - anger, confusion, sadness, grief, depression, guilt, shame, anxiety and in some cases, relief. How children respond depends on their developmental age, gender, temperament and the behavior of adults in their lives. They may cling excessively for fear of abandonment. They may perform poorly in school, or conversely become overachievers as means to deal with their stress.
Teenagers are the most likely to act out and to show anger and resentment toward their parents.
Teens may be more likely to seek out emotional support and refuge outside the home. They may seek their own romantic relationships based on feelings they have regarding their parent's divorce. Even as adults, many children will still wonder how their lives might have been different had their parents not divorced. How children react also depends on how outside family members and caregivers respond. Communicate Be honest, clear and direct about how the divorce will affect the children and their relationship with both parents.