A survey of nearly 7000 children in the final year of primary school and years 8 and 10 of secondary school on behalf of the Children’s Society found that children of parents who are in conflict are more unhappy than children whose parents separate or divorce. Children who reported that their family “gets along well together” are on average 20% happier than children in families who do not get on. This outcome is the same for children living with two parents who get along, a parent and step-parent or a single parent.
Although children were on average 10% more unhappy in the immediate aftermath of their parents separating or another change in family structure such as gaining a step-parent or a single parent cohabiting with a partner, happiness levels recovered to similar levels as for children with no family conflict within a year.
The survey suggests that where there is parental conflict, parents should not stay together “for the sake of the children” as this is not the best outcome for the children. Parents who decide to separate should be reassured that their children will not experience long-term effects if the separation process is managed well.
This survey complements earlier American research into parental conflict and young- adult well-being which Lawson-West discussed in an article considering the 20th Anniversary of the Children Act which found that children in high conflict marriages are no better off than children from single parent households.
Lawson-West recommend that any parents considering separating find a solicitor who is also a member of Resolution, an association of Family Law professionals, which aims to assist separating couples to reduce anxiety and expense. Lawson-West will always work to reduce contention and hostility to help families move on with minimum pain and trauma.
If you would like to discuss separation or divorce, please contact either Alistair Dobson or Janet Hopkins on 01858 445480 or James Haworth on 0116 212 1080 or complete one of the on-line forms. James is a member of the Leicestershire Regional Committee for Resolution, an association of legal professionals working to reduce conflict in separation and divorce.
