Checklist of Protective and Risk Factors for Children of Divorce

People often ask, "How will this divorce effect my kids." Instead of looking at just the divorce itself, the research is clear that there are a number of factors which can increase or decrease the chances that kids will have problems. There is still a debate in the divorce field about whether divorce has long term consequences for children or if they can adjust well after a divorce. This list can be used by parents at any time in the divorce process. Parents should be aware of how different risk factors can increase the chance children will have adjustment difficulties during this time and should make every effort to enhance the protective factors. This list can also be used by professionals to take note of areas of strength and possible problem areas when working with clients going through divorce.

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Protective factors

Competent and involved custodial parents
Cooperative co-parenting
Individual child characteristics: (e.g. intelligence, ability to self-regulate, independence, self-esteem)
Strong internal resources in parents
Positive achievements in academics, sports, and positive peer relations
A close sustained relationship with a competent adult such as a teacher, other family member, therapist, friend's parent, etc.
Having an easy temperament
Positive sibling support
The active and continued involvement of both parents
Economic stability
Positive parent-child relationships
Interventions that enabled parents to settle disputes: divorce education programs and mediation
A positive father-child relationship
Mothers having a high degree of warmth toward their children
One parent having a positive relationship with their child
Low level of parental hostility
Risk factors

Custodial parent exhibiting less effective parenting
Diminished involvement from the noncustodial parent
Continued hostility between the parents after the divorce
Diminished economic resources
Low maternal warmth
Mothers with a high level of depressive symptoms
Continued and repeated life changes including changes in residence and schools
Subsequent parental relationships, marriages, and divorces
An acrimonious divorce process