No. Divorce does not always damage children. In many cases, mainly where there have been high levels of conflict between spouses, both adults and children are better off after the split, especially in the immediate aftermath. There are two main reasons why the break-up of parents can affect kids negatively.

How bad is divorce for a child?

Divorce frequently contributes to depression, anxiety or substance abuse in one or both parents and may bring about difficulties in balancing work and child rearing. These problems can impair a parents ability to offer children stability and love when they are most in need.

Is a divorce better than an unhappy marriage?

Divorce is better than a toxic marriage because it will help you bring the focus on yourself. Research has shown that women who are divorced and never marry again tend to spend happier lives than those who stay married to a toxic partner.

What are the positive effects of divorce on a child?

Children who experience divorce are more likely to have increased empathy for others. When children who experience divorce observe others they care about having difficulty, it often resonates more, and they become more accepting of the various problems and situations experienced by others.