How To Protect Kids From The Negative Effects Of Custody Battles

One of the toughest things to deal with in a divorce is a custody battle. It is hard for the non-custodial parents to stay separated from their children. But more than the parents, the main focus should be on the children. In a state that keeps a child’s preference first before anything else during a custody battle, it is nothing less than a crime to ignore the negative effects that can harm a child’s psychology. Children are sensitive and it is very important to understand how they feel and how they will react to a divorce between their parents.

Keep them away from arguments

As a parent, it is advised that you keep your arguments to yourself. Don’t go into an argument with your ex. spouse if your children are nearby. Your children are smarter than you think them to be and they pay a lot of attention to their surroundings. When they see you constantly arguing and bickering it burdens them with feelings of anxiety and fear. After a certain period of time, the fear converts into anger and they can become a threat to the society. The safety and comfort of your children should be the first thing on your parenting list and protecting them should be your first priority.

Don’t react emotionally all the time

When you react emotionally towards your ex. spouse, you are not only causing him/her harm but you’re also causing harm to your children. Your children grow up thinking you are a “bad” person and sharing the same roof will cause them trouble. Acting unreasonably emotional for no particular reason jeopardizes your position as the primary caretaker of your children. You must keep yourself safe before you can keep your children safe.

Interact with them

Act as if everything is normal and allow your children to adapt to the change. Interact with them as much as you can. Interaction plays an important role in parenting and positive interaction will definitely protect them from the negative effects of custody battle.

Conclusion

Protecting children from the negative effects of divorce is the most important factor during custody battles. Your behavior towards your ex-spouse is very important because your children are watching you and since they are very sensitive, it is crucial to maintain a positive behavior in their presence. Interact with your children and keep them engaged in different activities.

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Gerald A. Maggio is an experienced Orange County divorce and family law lawyer and family law attorney located in Irvine, California, serving the Orange County and Riverside areas. Mr. Maggio assists clients with legal issues including divorce, legal separation, divorce mediation, child custody, prenuptial agreements, stepparent adoptions, and other family law issues. Mr. Maggio has practiced law in California since 1999, and founded The Maggio Law Firm in 2005, focusing exclusively on divorce and family law matters.