Fears escalate with stress at home. In young females, unfocused anger turned inward becomes depression. In young males, anger turned outward becomes aggression. AGES 6 TO 8 Fears escalate. Low self-esteem and sense of helplessness confirmed by inability to prevent divorce.
Survival feels threatened.
Deep sense of deprivation. A feeling of being torn between both parents. Attempts to fill role of missing parent. AGES 9 TO 12 See divorce as parent's problem, not their own. Experience feelings of shame, resentment, rejection and loneliness.