Study: Divorce Affects Boys More
A recent study claims that divorce has a bigger impact on boys than girls because of the lack of fatherly connection that can occur due to divorce. The study cites increased suicidal tendencies for some boys whose parents divorced before the age of 18:
Some experts have expressed surprise at these findings because depression is seen in women more often than in men. However, more men successfully commit suicide than women and others are less surprised, including one of the authors of the study. Dr. Esme Fuller-Thomson stated that more women retain custody of their children than men and fathers often see far less of their children than mothers. Boys are heavily dependent on their fathers for emotional support and guidance as they grow older. When this connection is weakened (or disappears in some cases), boys grow up with fewer coping skills and can turn to suicidal thoughts as a result. Read More.
This is not to suggest that a failed marriage should not be ended. After all, a failed marriage can be disastrous to a child just as a divorce can be. It’s important, however, to make divorce as manageable for the children as possible and strive to ensure your children have good role models of both genders after you and your spouse divorce. This can be achieved through a functional joint custody agreement or by remarrying a supportive and loving companion who can fill part of the void.
If you’re facing divorce, call us today to get help.
