Is Divorce More Difficult To Handle For Adopted Children?
Married couples who adopt are not thinking that their relationship might not last. Unfortunately, divorce sometimes occurs after adopting a child. In addition to helping your child cope with the normal emotions that come with divorce, you also have to factor in the possibility that his or her adoption could create additional emotional problems. If you are in the process of divorcing, here is what you need to know.
How Is Divorce Possibly Harder for Adopted Children?
It is not uncommon for adopted children to sometimes feel a sense of abandonment due to being placed for adoption. Some children also experience grief and loss. All of these emotions can lead a child to have a poor sense of self-esteem. Divorce can sometimes compound those feelings.
Even though you and your spouse have taken steps to reassure your child that he or she is loved, the idea that the child is "losing" part of his or her family can exacerbate his or her emotional problems. As a result, your child might have a period of grieving that can impact his or her everyday life.
What Can You and Your Spouse Do?
It is important that you and your spouse continue to work together to raise your child. Since the child will not be living with both parents under the same roof anymore, you and your spouse need to have a solid co-parenting plan that ensures that all your child's needs are met.
Creating a solid co-parenting plan can be challenging if you and your spouse are having difficulties communicating and if there is resentment between you. However, you and your spouse need to focus on your child's emotional welfare. Both of you need to commit to helping your child adjust.
For instance, you and your spouse can agree to stay in the same city at least for the first year. The year gives your child a chance to get used to parents living in two different homes. It also gives both parents a chance to let the child know that he or she will not be abandoned by either parent.
If you are unable to create a co-parenting plan, get your divorce lawyers involved. There are a few reasons for doing this, but the most important is they have experience in creating plans. They can help you and your spouse identify what the plan needs to entail and work towards a plan that will work for all parties involved. For more information, contact local professionals like Begley Carlin & Mandio LLP,
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