Coping with Divorce- A Teens View

This is quite a conjested topic, one that many people believe they have the answers to. I'm gonna mention a few that worked for myself, although im only 16 I still have sufficient knowledge that helped me and may others. I dont want this to be long and a time waster, so ill keep it brief and in language other teens understand.

1:

Remember, it dont matter how bad the situation may seem, its NOT YOUR FAULT!! Parents have the tendancy to involve teens coz they know they are old enough and want them to hear their side. Dont buy it, it turns family members away. When my parents split 4 years ago, strsight away the dog hit the bone and both parents wanted be on their side. Its not your fault, but you can be so invloved in it that you may feel like it is.

2:

Girls tend to follow their mothers, especially if they raised them most of the time before the divorce. When push comes to shove, you may have a decision on your hands- mum or dad. If you are a girl don't be afraid to say to dad that you love him just as much but would rather be with mum SO BE IT. It is your decision, and he WILL understand and love you just as much. Guys, you will also tend to want to be with the one who mainly raised you while your other parent worked etc. You may not have that strong connection girls have with their mothers but what I have found is that I would rather be where most my family is. Dont worry about favortism, if you love both parents and want to be with one DO IT. Parents want the best for their kids, and they will be happy for you.

3:

Your a teen, so you have exams and high-school to also worry about. If things get really stressful, go for a walk, ring ya mates up and have a chat and even plan something for the next time you get off. Keeping your mind off the divorce and on other things WILL HELP. Trust me, you will get over the first few years and everything will start turning out good. It is a tough time, I know, but you have a lot of support from relatives, friends and so many more. Dont always look on the negative, THINK POSITIVE!!! How many guys u kno whos parents are together and get 2 loads of christmas and birthday prezzies? There is always a good side to life, dont give up. YOU WILL GET THROUGH!!!

4.

Although you guys and girls may feel under a lot of stress and stuff, try to refrain from taking it out on people, especially parents. They are not finding it any easier with you yelling, so try to talk. ITS HARD, i know, but bring it up in a subject and you never kno, it could end up being a positive conversation!

FOR THE PARENTS:

Most parents would agree that teens handle the issues of divorce quite differently. For example,guys will tend to shutdown or refrain from talking and say their 'fine', when really they're not. Girls will deal with the issues differently, and depending on who she is usually she may talk more about her concerns than a guy would. All these teens need is a constant reminder from parents and relatives about how much they love them and will always be there. Soon they will understand and tend to handle tougher situations better, and we all know divorce is no picnic in the park! Teens, although may not ever admit it (especially the blokes) need a lot of lovin, and appreciate it when the parents show they care. Both parents and teens need each other for support in tough times like these, and by keeping that bond with your kid in their adolescent years they will appreciate it in the future.