The Lasting Effects of Divorce Stephanie Skurski

The Facts VIDEO

Statistics More than 40% of marriages end in divorce (“Information on Divorce Rate Statistics”, n.d.) Family dynamics are changed Children experience the psychological effects of a divorce

History of Divorce Divorce rates began to rise after the Civil War Studies show that rates increase during times of war and economic hardship Rates decreased during the 1908s due to cohabitation and an increase in contraception and abortion

History of Divorce Childbearing is now taking place out of wedlock, leaving children to be raised in a single-parent home Research shows that 25% of children who come from broken marriages have significant problems (National Healthy Marriage Resource Center, n.d.)

Physical Changes Children may adapt to physical changes Changes include Moving into a new home or school district Making new friends Feeling the absence of a parental figure on a daily basis Less financial stability

Emotional Affect Parents who encourage a loving relationship with their children can decrease the risk of psychological disorders As children grow older, divorce may impact their intimate relationships with others The first two years of children’s lives after a divorce may involve mood-swings, depression, abnormal behaviors, and a decline in physical health

Relevance to Mental Health The overall goal of OT in a mental health setting it to provide interventions that support a meaningful life (AOTA, n.d.) The recovery model provides goal-orientated activities that guide clients through trying times OT’s should embrace therapeutic use of self to lead children and provide empathy

OT Interventions The decision to end a relationship can be traumatic for everyone involved Children and adults can learn ways to cope with such a challenging event It is our role to help client’s heal by being accepting and supportive

Conclusion Divorce rates are on the rise which cause an increased need for therapy services to repair relationships and maintain functional skills OT services are evidence based and support the conclusion that individuals diagnosed with a mental illness can recover to lead meaningful lives (AOTA, n.d.)

References American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). (n.d.). Occupational Therapy’s Role in Mental Health Recovery. Retrieved from http://www.aota.org/media/Corporate/Files/AboutOT/Professionals/WhatisOT/MH/Facts/Mental%20Health%20Recovery.pdf Corcoran, K. (1997, June). Psychological and Emotional Aspects of Divorce. Retrieved from http://www.mediate.com/articles/psych.cfm#effects Emery, R. (2000(. How Divorce Affects Children. Retrieved from http://emeryondivorce.com/how_divorce_affects_children.php Furstenburg, F. (1994). History and Current Status of Divorce in the United States. Retrieved from http://futureofchildren.org/futureofchildren/publications/docs/04_01_02.pdf Information on Divorce Rate Statistics. (n.d.). Retrieved March, 24, 2015, from Information on Divorce Rate Statistics National Healthy Marriage Resource Center. (n.d.). Minimizing the Impact of Divorce on Children. Retrieved from http://www.twoofus.org/educational-content/articles/minimizing-the-impact-of-divorce-on-children/index.aspx