Experiences of daycare children of divorce

Abstract

Research shows that children of divorce are at risk of adjustment problems and school problems. In previous studies of young children of divorce, most often parents or teachers have supplied data. In this study, we explore the children's own feelings and experiences through Q methodology with visual images. The study includes 17 children of divorce and 20 living with both biological parents. Three child viewpoints were detected: the first was characterised by many happy feelings, and few sad or angry feelings. The second was more mixed with a variety of feelings. The third view was characterised by several sad and lonely feelings among adults and child. Children of divorce seemed to be more prone to end up on the two latter factors. Possible implications are discussed.

Keywords:

• young children
• divorce
• child-centred approach
• Q methodology

Acknowledgements

This study is a smaller part of the Bambi-project at the University of Stavanger (UiS), see http://saf.uis.no/research. The Research Council of Norway supports the project through grant 187572/S20. Appreciation is expressed to daycare centres and children who kindly helped us by participating in this study. Illustrations are by Ole Andrè Hauge and belong to Centre for Behavioural Research at UiS.