There are many studies about how divorce impacts children, and there are just as many competing theories about its effects. One study says that divorce may have a negative impact on a child’s ability to form attachments for the rest of his or her life.
According to Science Daily, a study showed children of divorce produce less oxytocin, which helps with the forming of romantic feelings and relationship bonds. The theory based on the findings is that it is more difficult for these children to be able to be comfortable in romantic relationships, thus the divorce of their parents could make it harder for them to form healthy relationships in adulthood.
Common impact
When it comes to divorce, most researchers look at immediate impacts. They will study and discuss how the divorce may cause mood changes in some children or impact their education. A lot of studies focus on how having a one-parent home can affect a child.
These things are usually short-term. Researchers have not gotten into the long-term effects, if any, of divorce on children.
Long-term
Looking at the long-term effects is what brought about the study that showed the potential negative impact on relationships in the children’s future. However, it is important to note that the research is far from extensive.
In fact, researchers have not looked at how age at the time of the divorce impacts the outcome or other factors that may play a role. It was a limited study with only preliminary results.
What this means to you is that you should not worry too much about what this study says. Instead, focus on keeping your divorce healthy for your children and supporting them now and in the future.