Effects of Separation and Divorce On Children

The purpose of this course is to outline the effects of separation and divorce on children and to provide some relevant research on this topic. The course will look at how different factors, including parental conflict, impact children's adjustment, and how appropriate living arrangements and parenting time or contact schedules for children can help them better manage the transition. Students will be guided on how to take action when abuse and/or allegations of abuse is identified. Additionally, students will learn how, as a counsellor and/or mediator, they can work more effectively with parents as they make a parenting plan and meet challenges their children may experience as they adjust to the separation. Students will also be exposed to characteristics of parental alienation and the way that various professionals can assist when these dynamics are present. This course is a companion course to FAMJ1005: The Effects of Separation and Divorce on Adults.