Children's Ability to Cope Post-Divorce

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a 6-week child-oriented educational program on the adjustment of 7-9-year-old children from divorcing families. Using the Children's Divorce Adjustment Inventory (CDAI) and a series of vignettes the authors assessed the effect of Kids' Turn, a San Francisco Bay Area divorce education program. A matched sample T-test was completed on both measures. The study included 60, 7-9-year-old children who participated with their parents. Based on specific behavioral criteria, pre— and posttesting revealed that children's adjustment significantly improved after completing Kids' Turn. Some of this criteria consisted of reports of less conflict between children and parents as well as children's ability to avoid participating in conflict-laden situations within the post-divorce family. In contrast, children appeared more emotionally activated at the culmination of the program. They had more reconciliation fantasies, greater awareness of distressing feelings regarding the divorce, and more sensitivity to being misunderstood by their parents. The authors concluded Kids' Turn is effective in creating a greater awareness of children's role in the dynamics of the post-divorce family. However, while attitudes, beliefs, and behavior changed in a positive direction, the authors caution that children may need evaluation and continued support in addressing the strong feelings the program aroused in the participants.

Key Words:

• Children of divorce
• psychoeducational programs for children of divorce