Teenagers are at a unique crossroads in life: not quite grown up, but no longer young children. Teens deal with emotional issues much differently than either younger kids or adults, and therefore a divorce affects a teenager differently as well. A teenager may exhibit a variety of reactions to news of divorce, including anger, depression, feelings of guilt, taking sides, outbursts, or even refusing to speak about the event at all. By understanding how teenagers may be deal with their emotions, you can help your own teen through this difficult time.

• Your teen may feel guilty. You may think that your teenager is old enough to understand that the divorce was not his or her fault. However, many teenagers do feel guilty when their parents divorce, as if somehow they are to blame for the situation. Just as you would talk to a young child, you should explain to your teenager that the divorce is between you and your spouse, and that the teenager is not at fault.

• Your teen may express anger. It is okay for your teenager to be angry. Suddenly, routines are changed and life is now completely different in a one-parent household. Anger is an extension of sadness and fear-your teen may be scared about the future and sad about the present situation. Consider seeking outside emotional support for your teen so that he or she may vent anger in a productive and healthy environment.

• Your teen may take sides with one parent. Your teen may decide to blame you or your ex-spouse as the reason for the divorce. It can be difficult to deal with this situation, especially if the teen has blamed you. Try talking with both your teen and your ex-spouse about the situation, and understand that taking sides is just another way of dealing with fear and anger.

• Your teen may refuse to talk about the divorce. Sometimes teenagers seem to be fine with the divorce and do not talk about the situation with either you or your ex-spouse. Although your teen may be dealing with the divorce in a healthy way, make sure that your teen is not internalizing all emotions. He or she may want or need to speak to someone, but may be uncomfortable talking to you or your ex-spouse. Encourage dialogue between your teen and his or her friends or a trusted adult.

To learn more about talking to your children and teenagers about divorce, visit the website of the Raleigh divorce attorneys of Marshall & Taylor Law Firm, P.C.