A study titled Young adults’ perception of how parental divorce, in childhood, has influenced adult functioning.
Parental divorce can be a challenging experience for children, shaping their perceptions and functioning well into adulthood. In South Africa, where four out of ten children witness their parents’ divorce before reaching adulthood, understanding these impacts becomes crucial. Yet, little research within this context exists, prompting a study aimed at exploring how young adults perceive the effects of parental divorce on their current functioning.
Approaching this study through the lens of Social Constructionism, which emphasizes how reality is shaped by shared knowledge and social influences, provided a nuanced understanding. This framework acknowledges that individuals construct their own reality, and there’s no universal truth regarding the impact of divorce.
Findings from interviews with six young adults in Gauteng shed light on various aspects of their experiences:
Before and During Parental Divorce:
- Reasons for divorce ranged from infidelity to emotional abuse, with mothers often initiating the process.
- Preparation for the divorce varied, with some parents having conversations with their children about the impending changes.
- The announcement of divorce brought a mix of disappointment and relief, with some children feeling compelled to intervene for their parents’ well-being.
Perceived Impact on Childhood and Adolescence:
- Despite changes in family structure, conflicts persisted, and children often became involved, impacting their sense of security.
- Relationships with parents, particularly fathers, became strained or distant, leading to feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, and academic challenges.
- Coping mechanisms, such as academic focus, were common but varied among participants.
Perceived Impact on Young Adulthood:
- Relationships with mothers tended to improve, but relationships with fathers remained distant or non-existent for many.
- Negative emotionality persisted, linked to distant father-child relationships and a sense of not belonging.
- Participants reported difficulty in trusting others and establishing intimate relationships but also highlighted personal growth and independence.
Conclusion:
The study highlighted the enduring effects of parental divorce, including emotional challenges, trust issues, and struggles with intimacy. Understanding these impacts is crucial for providing support to children experiencing divorce. In our next blog post, we’ll discuss recommendations for parents navigating divorce, aimed at mitigating its adverse effects on children.
By acknowledging the diverse experiences of young adults and the complex ways in which divorce shapes their lives, we can better support them in their journey towards resilience and well-being. Prudence Poswa provides psychotherapy services virtually online—book your appointment today!
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