The dissolution of a marriage involving children within the adolescent age range can precipitate a variety of consequences across multiple domains of development. These consequences encompass psychological well-being, academic performance, social relationships, and behavioral adjustment. The magnitude and manifestation of these outcomes are influenced by a constellation of factors including the child’s age, pre-existing family dynamics, the level of parental conflict, and the availability of supportive resources.
Understanding the ramifications of marital separation on this vulnerable population is of paramount importance for several reasons. First, it informs the development of effective intervention strategies aimed at mitigating negative outcomes. Second, it provides valuable insights for legal and policy considerations pertaining to child custody and support arrangements. Historically, research in this area has evolved from focusing solely on negative outcomes to recognizing the potential for resilience and positive adaptation following family restructuring. Consideration of protective factors, such as strong parent-child relationships and access to community support, are increasingly emphasized.
