Divorce Lawyers Phoenix - Impact on Extended Families
Impact on Extended Families
Divorce ultimately changes the relationship between you and your in-laws. If effects your spouse and members of your family, and between the two families. Not surprisingly, divorce typically splits the extended family into two camps. That does not mean the two camps are always or frequently at odds, and it certainly is better, especially for the children of the divorcing couple, if everyone stays on mostly friendly terms. But it usually means that any closeness you shared with your in-laws is lost.
That can be a huge loss for close-knit extended families. When parents think of their son-in-law or daughter-in-law “like a son” or “like a daughter” or siblings have a brotherly or sisterly connection with an estranged in-law, they are likely to miss that person greatly. They might also want to keep in contact. Most important, in-laws remain grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins to a divorced couple’s children for life. They will always have an emotional stake in those relationships.
Most extended family members feel concern, confusion, empathy, and sadness. Some will be shocked, particularly if they were under the impression there were not marital problems. Some will disapprove, because they don’t understand or accept the reasons for the decision or because of religious or moral beliefs. There may be pressure and even interference to stay together for the benefit of children.
Some family members might be angry, disappointed, and judgmental. Others might blame and fling accusations and insults at you or your spouse or both. It is also not uncommon for family members, including your own, to avoid you and exclude you. As hurtful as this is, try to remember that they’re hurting, too, and that retaliating can only do more harm.
Often, the majority of blood relatives are compassionate and accommodating. They remain loyal and close to their child and can provide the greatest form of support.
