Divorce is a choice that is sometimes inevitable for a married couple. It can be mutually agreed upon by a couple with irreconcilable differences. In some cases, unfortunately, it can be due to domestic violence and altercations.
As the divorcees separate, their children are the ones affected the most. They get caught in a tug-of-war between their parents. To help determine the rights to child custody, involved families should consider hiring a lawyer well-versed in family law in areas like Townsville.
It shouldn’t be all left to the lawyer, however. Parents should also learn about the various considerations when it comes to determining child custody so that they can know what their child needs.
Child’s Condition
Younger children have more delicate mindsets. Suddenly changing their environment is not recommended as it will affect their behavior and emotional growth negatively. A consistent routine is essential in helping them develop connections and trust.
Joint custody is inadvisable in this case. Going to and from their parents’ houses will strain a child’s mental health and end up distressing them. They are not yet able to comprehend the reasons a married couple separates and instead focuses on their parents not being together.
Letting the child understand the situation isn’t the primary goal in this case. Fostering their growth should be prioritized. In most cases, the child will live with the parent who lives in their current home. Otherwise, custody will be evaluated using the next factors below.
Parent’s Health
A parent should be in good physical and mental health to qualify for child custody. If they’re overwhelmed by the stress of divorce, then they might need to take some time by themselves first. Recovering is essential to support their child better.
Studies have shown that separation can have negative effects on the parent’s mental health. It has a chance to cause anxiety and depression for the parties involved. In some cases, alcohol dependence can develop as a coping mechanism.
Divorcees should work through their emotions first to recuperate faster. They should be mentally healthy to prove that they can nurture their child wholeheartedly.
Emotional Connection
The child’s connection to the parent is important. If they don’t get along, it will cause the parent and child stress. Their mental and emotional health will suffer in the long run.
However, there are various causes of parent-child conflict. Divorce can diminish a child’s emotional connection to their parents. They become forced to choose between their parents. For adolescents, they end up getting angry with their parents for deciding to divorce.
If possible, the situation should be explained to the child. This will minimize the chances of negative feelings from developing and allow them to adjust to the situation.
Parent’s Ability to Provide
This is one of the most important factors for child custody. The parent should be able to fulfill the child’s basic needs. They include food, shelter, safety, and emotional support. Children are still unable to support themselves, so parents need to provide these for them.
The parent should also be able to foster the child’s development. They should teach the child social skills to get along with people. Also, they must guide their child to manage their emotions better, especially after the divorce.
Some parents fight for child custody as a way to get back at their partner. However, one should remember that a child is also their own individual. Instead of focusing on their conflict, divorcees should pay attention to helping their child have a good life even after their separation.
