Divorce is never an easy process, but parents who are going through a divorce face particularly difficult challenges. The legal and emotional turmoil that can come with navigating child custody and child support negotiations is more than just time-consuming; it is often emotionally draining. This is true not just for the parents, but also for the children.
Thankfully, you are not the first parents to get divorced. There are many other families that have gone through similar frustrations, and countless mental health professionals have analyzed these situations and provided valuable information on how to help set children up for success after their parents’ divorce.
With the right approach, you can do more than just help your children through the divorce — you can help them thrive.
In order to get to this point, it is important to be familiar with two aspects of how the divorce can impact the children: the legal and psychological.
#1: Understanding Indiana’s child custody framework
Indiana, like most states, focuses on the best interests of the child when navigating child custody determinations. This is a legal standard that courts use to make decisions regarding custody arrangements. Indiana law generally recognizes two types of custody: physical custody, or where the child lives, and legal custody, which focuses more on the child’s upbringing, including education, health care, and religious training. The courts can award joint or sole custody, based on various factors that affect the child’s welfare. These often include:
- The child’s age and gender
- The mental and physical health of all parties involved
- The ability of the parents to cooperate and resolve disputes
The court’s primary concern is to foster an environment that serves the child’s best interests, promoting stability and healthy development. In many cases, the courts will try for a joint arrangement, encouraging both parents to play an active role in the upbringing of the children.
#2: Learn how to set children up for success post-divorce
It is helpful to know that the data is on your side. Research shows that approximately 80% of children of divorce had no serious negative effects on their grades, health, or social standing after their parents’ divorce.
In order to help better ensure your children fall within this group, or even rise above, child psychologists emphasize the importance of a supportive environment. One key recommendation is the use of a regular schedule as consistency in daily life can provide a sense of security for children. It is also helpful to encourage open communication. Children can benefit from knowing they can express their feelings freely and safely.
The legal framework in Indiana aims to balance the interests of the parents with the needs of the child, striving for a resolution that supports the child’s development and emotional well-being. By understanding the legal considerations and incorporating advice from child psychologists, parents can better navigate the complexities of child custody and contribute positively to their child’s adjustment process.