When a family goes through a divorce, it is not just the adults who are affected. Teens also undergo changes, which can be challenging to cope with. This post will discuss some of the impacts of divorce on teens. We will also examine how parents and caregivers can help teens deal with these changes. Remember that every teen is different, so what works for one may not work for another. Matthew Teeple believes that It is essential to be patient and understanding as your teen adjusts to this significant life change.
Matthew Teeple’s Take on How Teens May React to Divorce
Defiance and Non-Compliance
Defiance and non-compliance are ways teens respond to divorce. While it is understandable that they might feel this way, it can actually make the situation worse.
Defiance and non-compliance can fuel conflict between parents and make it more difficult to reach a resolution. It can also interfere with parenting time and make it more difficult for the child to adjust to the divorce.
According to Matthew Teeple, if you are dealing with a defiant teen, it is important to try to stay calm and avoid reacting in a negative way.
Instead, focus on giving them clear expectations and consequences for their behavior. This can help them to start making positive choices and begin to cope with the divorce in a healthy way.
Depression
There are many different reasons why teens may suffer from Depression, and one of them is divorce. The stress and turmoil of a divorce can be overwhelming for a teen, leading to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and helplessness.
If not treated, Depression can have severe consequences, such as problems in school, substance abuse, and even suicide.
Thankfully, there are many effective treatments available for Depression. If you think your teen is suffering from Depression, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Early Sexual Activity
For many teens, the experience of their parents getting a divorce can be traumatic. In some cases, this trauma can manifest itself in early sexual activity.
While this may seem insignificant, early sexual activity can have a profound impact on a teen’s future. For one thing, it can place them at greater risk for developing STDs and becoming pregnant.
Additionally, early sexual activity can lead to emotional instability and relationship problems later in life.
As a result, it is important for parents to be aware of the potential risks of early sexual activity and to provide their children with the support they need to cope with the aftermath of divorce.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a common coping mechanism for teens dealing with divorce. According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 43% of teens who reported their parents’ divorce said they turned to substance abuse as a coping method.
This is not surprising, as substance abuse can provide a temporary escape from the pain and confusion that often accompany divorce. According to Matthew Teeple, substance abuse can be a way of acting out against the parent who is seen as responsible for the divorce.
However, it is important to note that substance abuse can also lead to a host of problems, including addiction, legal trouble, and health problems. As such, it is important for teens to seek out healthy ways of coping with the stressors associated with divorce.
Suicidal Tendencies
Suicidal tendencies are another way for teens to cope with divorce. After a divorce, teens may feel abandoned, lost, and confused.
They may see suicide as a way to end their pain and suffering. Suicidal teens may also feel that they are a burden to their parents and that their death would be a relief to their families.
If a teen is suicidal, it is important to get help right away. If you are worried about a teen in your life, talk to him or her about your concerns. You can also call a suicide hotline in your area.
Matthew Teeple’s Concluding Thoughts
Conclusion paragraph: Divorce is never easy, but it can be especially difficult for teenagers. Matthew Teeple understands that the impacts of divorce on teens can be wide-ranging and long-lasting. So it’s important to understand what they are and how to help kids cope. If you or someone you know is going through a divorce, these tips should help your teen get through it as smoothly as possible.