Research shows that divorce or other split of the family affects most children in negative ways, therefore it is extremely important that you and your spouse (or the other parent) educate yourselves regarding these effects and how you can work together to minimize them. The potential emotional effects on children can include anger, anxiety and depression, and there can also be behavioral effects, such as conduct disorders, impulsive and risky behaviors, truancy, and even drug use that can result from emotional upheaval. Florida law requires each parent to take a parenting course that informs you of age-specific child reactions to the split of the family, as well as ways to reassure and help the child adjust to the new family dynamics. Completion of this course is required before the Court will enter a Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage or a Final Judgment of Paternity.
