Adult Children of Divorce

The lasting psychological effects of coming from a divorced home on children are one of the most well-documented social phenomena of the past few decades. Several long-term studies of these individuals report difficulty in forming and maintaining meaningful relationships, with the greatest emotional challenges arising somewhere in the early twenties.

However, as much attention as is paid to those whose parents separate when the children are still relatively young, comparatively little information exists on these individuals later in life. Too often, full-grown adults are assumed to be either unaffected when their parents decide on divorce or strong enough to “take it.” This belief means they also run a great risk of being dragged into the fray, with parents convinced that their son or daughter can be talked into see things their way.

The plain truth is that divorce is difficult no matter one’s age, and adult children face their own specific set of difficulties. When parents have been married for so long, separation can come as a huge and unexpected shock to the rest of the family.

The self-image most people have by their adult years includes their familial background, which can be almost impossible to reconcile with the idea of divorce so much later in life. Children in their 20’s and 30’s often feel as though their entire childhood has suddenly been torn away from them, especially if they have been living independently long enough not to sense any sort of rift developing between their mother and father.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love is facing divorce, contact the experienced team of San Jose divorce attorneys at the Law Office of Daniel Jensen, P.C. today by calling 408-296-4100.