The Effects Of Social Support On Children - 1949 Words

â€Å"Social support appears to be another protective factor. Samera and Stolberg (1993) found that children’s social support from peers was positively related to adjustment as rated by children, teachers, and parents.† (Amato, 2000, p.1281). Despite the reports of increased risk for children of divorced families, studies show that in the long term, children from intact families are no better off than their peers whose parents divorced. Impact on Children Emotional, behavioral and Academic challenges are prevalent in children of all ages but can emerge differently depending on age as well as gender. Anger is the most common emotional impact on children of divorce. Studies show this is especially true in school age and adolescent boys. It can†¦show more content†¦This sadness interferes with the childs’ ability to do schoolwork, makes them uninterested in their usual activities or interacting with peers. This depression lessens their self-esteem and often leaves them with a poor self-image. â€Å"Researchers have found that school age children whose parents divorce have lower self-esteem than those whose parents remain married (Amato Keith,1991)† (Leon, 2003, p.264). In school age and adolescent girls low self-esteem can manifest due to the decreased amount and quality of time spent with their father especially if prior to the divorce there was a close father - daughter bond. Many of the emotions children experience as a result of divorce lead to changes in behavior both at home and at school. Aggression and behavioral problems are common in after separation for all ages and is in response to feelings of confusion and anger. Preschool aged children have difficulty understanding what is happening to their family and experience feelings of sadness and fear. Due to limited verbal abilities, young children tend to act out in response to this emotional stress causing issues for school/child care workers as well as at home. School aged children and adolescents have similar feelings and in many instances experience a sense of embarrassment regarding their parent’s divorce. They often encounter difficulties in their relationships both with family and friends. Boys in particular tend to avoid talking about their parents divorce