Talking To Teenagers About Separation
Try not to vent your anger to your teenager, even if you are the 'wronged
party'.
They may seem old enough to confide in, they
may even accept the news calmly and not appear upset, but don't turn them
against their other parent.
Your children love you both and won't want to
take sides, so don't undermine their other parent.
Find another shoulder to cry on
It's difficult to bottle up the hurt
and rejection you may feel, but find another shoulder to cry on, not your
teenager's. You are the adult and should resist burdening your teenagers
with your pain. They have their own feelings to deal with and need support
from you.
Set a good example for managing conflict
Divorce handled well can be a lesson
in how to manage the changes life brings. Teenagers whose parents have
divorced on good terms can learn to approach difficulties with courage
and optimism. They may learn to see problems as challenges which - although
hurtful and unsettling - can be resolved.
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