PowerPoint Presentation

Implementing Therapeutic Measures as a Viable Solution to Behavioral Problems in the Children of Divorced Parents

By: Gabrielle Reif

Introduction 41-50% of marriages end in divorce 40% those divorces involve children

Original Question Is there a correlation between parental divorce and the behavioral problems among the children involved?

Children of All Ages are Effected by DivorceInfants and toddlers- Have problems sleeping and become short temperedChildren in early childhoodTend to be more angryAdolescentsAre more rebellious Children all grow up- Have lasting negative effect into their personal relationships and future marriage

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----When children of divorce become adults they still tend to have problem These negative effects impact their personal relationship and future marriage or marriages4

My ProposalTherapeutic measures should be required for children of divorce and should continue for at least one year after the divorce. This should be mandated by the courts during divorce cases.

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----Therapuetic measures as in counseling or therapy for the child5

ContinuedThis time can be extended longer than a year.Children will be evaluated before counseling or therapy begins.At the initial evaluation the counselor with decide if the child will be required to attend individual or group therapy/counseling.

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----this one year time frame can be extended longer than a year which would be determined by the counselor or therapist6

Individual Therapy/CounselingIt is one-on-one with a counselor or therapist.It gives the child time to express their feelings.Helps teach the child how to copeMore in-depth attention for the child

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----Also it gives more in depth attention for the child to talk more about their personal problems at home or at school. Another benifit of individual therapy is that ther counsler or therapist can help the child cope with his or her own personal situation7

Group Therapy/CounselingChildren meet in a group of other children.Gives children extra supportHelps children realize they are not aloneChildren will be able to help each other cope.

Both types of therapy are effective, but it depends on the individual child when determining which would be most helpful.

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----and to determine which approach would be most helpful8

How This Would WorkSchool age children-attend counseling with school counselorIn extreme cases the school counselor would recommend a therapist.

Not school age children-see a therapist through social services-meet at home or-community health center or clinic (suitable by court)

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----but in extreme cases that go beyond just counceling the counselor would then recomend a therapist.9

Therapy Promotes Healthy Adaptation

Teens hurt themselves trying to cope with emotional pain, but counseling can help them cope.Every divorce is different and needs a tailored approach.Children have questions. It helps them to understand that they do not have to choose between parents.Therapy also allows parents to focus on themselves and constructing a new living environment.

----- Meeting Notes (5/7/15 17:48) -----The first reason why children need therapy or counseling is because it promotes healthy adaption10

Diminishing Long-Term Effects

Have a hard time forming intimate relationshipsCertain traits the parents display carry over to their children.The children as adults are more likely to display these negative behaviors and are more likely to get divorced themselves.With counseling there will be a less likely chance that this cycle will continue.

Counter ArgumentsMoney Caseworkers and school counselors are going to have too much work? Children are going to be made fun of for going to counseling? Parents should be allowed to monitor their children and determine if any problems arise. Why should parents freedom of choice for their child be taken away in regards to counseling post-divorce? There is nothing wrong with their child, and counseling does not work.

Money Schools pay for guidance counselors.Therapy can be at little to no cost through social services, free clinics, or community health centers.

WorkloadWork load for caseworker -Caseworker will have more work but can check up on more than one child at a time.Work load of counselors-Not all children have to be individual counseling.-Group counseling can minimize the counselors work load.

Societal View Has Changed

Everyone has experienced counseling or knows someone that has.Other children will have already gone through the counseling or will be currently going through it.The negative social stigma about counseling is no longer there.

The Decision Should Not Lie With Parents

Many things go unnoticed by parents.Children may not have their parents full attention. They may not be able to observe the child at school, with peers, and with siblings.Therapy is not only to help if behavioral and emotional problems are already there. It would be used as a preventative measure.

Success Stories

Example 1 (young girl)Example 2 (Reggie)

ConclusionYes, there is a correlation between parental divorce and the behavioral problems among the children involved.Therapeutic measures should be required for children of divorce and should continue for at least one year after the divorce.

References

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