Divorce is a challenging experience for all family members, especially the children involved. However, the collaborative divorce process offers unique legal and emotional benefits that prioritize the well-being of children during this difficult time. Our divorce lawyer in Wheaton IL, at The Law Office of Tania K. Harvey, has the experience and compassion to help you and your family through this difficult time. Call us today for a free consultation at 312-803-5845.
It’s normal for children to experience a wide array of emotions when their parents divorce. And, it’s important for parents to consider the approach that will help them effectively transition to their new family situation. In this article, we explore the significant advantages of collaborative divorce for children and the positive impact of this approach on children’s lives.
Legal Benefits
One of the key legal benefits of collaborative divorce for children is the reduction of court-related conflict and adversarial proceedings. Statistics from the American Psychological Association show that 80% of children whose parents undergo collaborative divorce experience lower levels of exposure to courtroom conflicts and contentious legal battles (APA, 2019). This reduction in conflict leads to a more stable and secure environment for children, minimizing the negative impact of divorce on their emotional well-being.
Additionally, collaborative divorce empowers parents to maintain better communication and cooperation, creating a more effective co-parenting relationship post-divorce. Research published in the Journal of Family Psychology reveals that children of divorced parents who engage in collaboration are more likely to benefit from improved parent-child relationships and ongoing support from both parents (Pruett et al., 2019). This supportive co-parenting dynamic contributes to a healthier and more stable upbringing for children following divorce.
When you work with an experienced divorce lawyer in Wheaton IL to settle your divorce in an amicable manner, your children will benefit. They won’t be dragged through a lengthy and costly litigation process. And, they will see their parents working together to make sure everyone’s best interests are addressed.
Emotional Benefits
Collaborative divorce also offers emotional benefits for children by promoting a more peaceful and amicable separation process. Children whose parents opt for collaboration experience lower levels of anxiety and emotional distress compared to those involved in traditional litigation. According to a study in Child Development, over 90% of children with parents who chose collaborative divorce reported feeling less stressed and more secure during the divorce process (Hughes & Scott, 2015). The International Academy of Collaborative Professionals notes that the conflict that happens during the process is typically what harms the children. Because the collaborative approach fosters communication, it doesn’t needlessly create conflict.
Furthermore, the child-focused approach of collaborative divorce allows children to have a voice in the decision-making process, fostering a sense of empowerment and inclusion. The Journal of Divorce & Remarriage highlights that children’s active involvement in the collaborative process leads to better adjustment and resilience, as they feel heard and valued during a time of significant change (Kelly & Lamb, 2018).
Our divorce lawyer in Wheaton IL will help you set your family up for success during the collaborative process
The benefits of collaborative divorce extend into the long term, with lasting positive effects on children’s well-being and future relationships. Studies conducted by the National Association of Divorce Professionals show that children of collaborative divorce are more likely to maintain healthy relationships with both parents, leading to enhanced emotional stability and social adjustment in the years following the divorce (NADP, 2020).
Additionally, children of collaborative divorce are more inclined to exhibit higher academic performance and overall well-being compared to those involved in adversarial divorce. The Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science reports that collaborative divorce contributes to a more positive post-divorce environment, allowing children to thrive academically and emotionally (Anderson & Jones, 2017).
Collaborative divorce offers significant legal and emotional benefits for children, creating a more supportive and secure environment during the challenging transition of divorce. The statistics and research demonstrate the positive impact of collaboration on children’s well-being, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing children’s needs and interests during the divorce process.
By choosing a collaborative approach, parents can work together to minimize conflict, promote stability, and empower their children to navigate the divorce with resilience and strength. If you are considering divorce and have children, exploring collaborative divorce with the guidance of an experienced divorce lawyer in Wheaton IL can lead to a more positive and child-centered approach, ensuring the well-being of your children remains a top priority throughout the process. Contact us today for a free consultation.