As per the latest data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. divorce rate is approximately 3.2 per 1,000 with 45 states and the District of Columbia reporting. Further statistical data reports that for those families navigating through divorce, the aftermath significantly increases the number of single parent households. Currently, single-parent homes headed by women encompasses almost 10 million while single parent homes run by men accounts for a little over two million households.
Although as the divorce rate appears somewhat optimistic in theory, two-thirds of all marriages will ultimately end in divorce. For the parent who has been awarded full custody or will be accepting the bulk of the parenting life, post-divorce may prove challenging.The following suggestions may assist new single parents with settling into a new reality:
Seek Emotional Support
Navigating life post-divorce in a positive manner is going to take time. Through the healing process seek either professional assistance or build a strong support team by enlisting family members, friends, and other single parents.
Rely on Independent Resources
Beginning with you, accept your new challenges and lose the idea of seeking the assistance of an ex-spouse. If you are a single mom and the pipe is leaking, go purchase a tool kit. If you are a single dad and one of the kids is having a meltdown, rely on your tactical skills. By relying on yourself or perhaps your support network you will gain independence for both you and your children, ensuring a clean break.
Conquering Kid Chaos
Pay attention not only to their words but their actions. This should be a good indicator on how they are handling post-divorce reality. Keep the doors of age-appropriate communication open but do not offer too much information or messy details. This will only compound their current complicated situation. If you show independence and strength, children learn by example, and they will adapt to your way of thinking.
Building a Better Balance
Becoming a single parent is difficult. Making your children the center of your universe will only prove more difficult. They need to witness your independence to begin their healing process on the road to their own independence. By developing a healthy, well-balanced relationship with your children, you will allow them to heal through love and support.
The experienced Hinsdale divorce attorneys of the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio understand the challenges of those facing divorce. To meet those challenges we have been assisting clients with both the emotional and legal ramifications of the process for the past 35 years. If you reside throughout DuPage, Cook, Kane, Kendall or Will Counties and would like to add us to your support team, contact our offices at 630-920-8855 to schedule your initial consultation today.
Sources:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/marriage-divorce.htm
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/02/divorce-rate-declining-_n_6256956.html
http://www.familyeducation.com/life/dealing-divorce/single-mothering-life-after-divorce