In some cases divorce can be better for everyone, including the children. Many times when there is an abusive spouse involved divorce is not only the best answer it is the only answer. Sue Behren, a doctor with 10 years experience in counseling children of divorce states, “all my research shows that kids are much happier when their parents are not rowing, when there is no friction or bad atmosphere at home.” She also believes that it is impossible for parents to grit their teeth and stay together “for the sake of the children” (Hester 2).

There are considerably stronger gender differences in the school age children than the preschool and younger children. Boys are more problematic than girls at this age are and this is due in part because, ninety percent of children live with their mothers after a divorce (Teyber 12). This is a loss of same-sex parental figure for boys and, many out of home fathers do not assume an active roll in parenting. Problems for daughters tend to emerge in adolescence when they begin dating and exploring relationships. Adolescence is the beginning of one’s independence. On one hand, these young people can be very helpful in these times of trouble by helping with the household responsibilities and providing stable relationships with their younger siblings. Heightened levels of maturity often stem from helping the family deal with the newly formed crisis. Generally, teenagers will cope with the divorce by distancing themselves from the problem and focusing merely on their own fate and futures. On the other hand, the initial feelings are of betrayal will cause some adolescents to engage in premature sexual relationships, become depressed, and even lose track of their goals

Some topics in this essay:
Gary Sandefur, Sue Behren, Princeton University, effects divorce, Sarah McLanahan, age children, children age, divorce children, school aged children, preschool age children, effects divorce children, children ages, differences school, preschool age, teyber 12, school aged, children preschool,