Though Illinois may hold a ranking as one of the states with the lowest divorce rate in the nation, it is important that married couples with children still recognize the signs of a failing marriage. According to the most recent data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the National Center for Health Statistics, the current divorce rate in Illinois was 1.9 per 1,000 people in 2017. Sometimes a marriage does not work out, though. If divorce comes to be the best option for the relationship, then parents are recommended to prioritize the development and mental health of their child or children through co-parenting practices.
A 2016 academic study titled ‘Coparenting after marital dissolution and children’s mental health: a systematic review’ found that successful co-parenting techniques involve not only the parents but also the assistance of psychologists and pediatricians to make sure that children cope well with the process of divorce. Regular evaluation of the emotional states and developmental progress of children from divorced families is key to making sure children are equipped to handle the divorce.
Additionally, even though divorced parents may disagree strongly with each other, those who co-parent cooperatively and present positive interactions to their children often have children with better mental health. Sometimes children may feel caught in the middle of arguments between divorced parents; a successful co-parenting plan makes sure the children are not a part of the arguments between adults. Divorced parents who are respectful towards each other, communicate openly and are united in a shared plan to raise safe and happy children can benefit from positive co-parenting.
