Who suffers the most in these situations, when both parents think s/he is right and fights to the bitter end to “win”? Sadly, it is the children. Studies have shown that it is the amount and intensity of the parental conflict that has a negative effect on children and not the divorce itself. If parents continue to have intense disagreements before, during and after the divorce then people assume that the divorce damaged the kids. But this is not the case at all. Kids are shown to become relatively well-adjusted to their post-divorce life when their parents are able to have an overall amicable relationship.
During divorce mediation at Westfield Mediation, LLC, we help couples go from a parental unit to co-parents. Throughout the process of mediation, parents are building a post-divorce relationship in which each can communicate with one another about the kids. Even after you are divorced, you are not done dealing with your ex-spouse if kids are involved. You may have to communicate more often post-divorce than perhaps you did towards the end of your marriage. You will always be Mom and Dad even when you are no longer Husband and Wife. And, your kids will be better off with less conflict. Maybe Tom and Katie should have a quick chat with Brad and Angelina.
For more information about divorce mediation contact Randi M. Albert, JD, or Michelle Weinberg, LMFT, at Westfield Mediation, LLC, at 908.913.0373. View our website at www.westfieldnjmediation.com or email us at info@westfieldnjmediation.com.