Ways Divorce Will Change Your Behavior

 Posted on April 16, 2018 in Divorce

Divorcing parents are told to watch for signs of emotional regression in their children. The stress of the divorce can cause some children to revert to behavior patterns that parents thought they had gotten past, such as:

• Thumb-sucking;
• Bed-wetting;
• Crying to express their emotions; and
• Separation anxiety.

Teens can react in various ways that range from being rebellious to being overly compliant. However, adults getting a divorce may not realize that they are also experiencing emotional regression. The effect is often temporary but can do lasting damage to their relationships with others.

Heightened Emotions

Emotional regression does not mean that adults start sucking their thumbs or behaving like rebellious teenagers. The regression may amplify worst parts of their personalities. For instance:

• An anxious person may start having panic attacks;
• A person with minor depression may feel a more crippling depression;
• A somewhat selfish person can become narcissistic;
• A suspicious person can become paranoid; and
• A person quick to anger can become violent.

Divorce makes people feel stressed and fearful about their futures, which in turn makes it more difficult to control their emotions. The emotional regression can last as long as it takes for people to feel at peace with their divorces and more certain about themselves.

Consequences

People experiencing emotional regression after a divorce may make decisions that they later regret. Their actions can have the consequence of alienating friends and family and causing emotional damage to their children. As a response to his or her divorce, a person may:

• Be more demanding towards others;
• Draw his or her children into the divorce arguments;
• Have a quicker temper; and
• Shut him or herself off from others.

In some cases, a person’s behavior after divorce can have long-term legal and financial consequences. A person’s anger may become domestic abuse, requiring an order of protection. A person may also make financial decisions based on a desire to satisfy his or her emotional needs.

Helping Yourself

You rarely feel like your best self when you are going through a divorce. It is important to recognize this fact and ask for help. You may need to talk with a therapist or support group to reconcile your emotions. You can be honest with your close friends and family about how you feel and rely on those who show a willingness to help. It is also helpful to have a lawyer to guide you in making wise decisions related to the divorce process. A Kane County divorce attorney at Goostree Law Group can provide a calming influence needed for a successful divorce. Schedule a free consultation by calling 630-584-4800.

Source:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-intelligent-divorce/201705/divorce-island