Children learn by watching their parents. When mom and dad constantly argue or respond to the other with apathy or disrespect, it might affect how their children begin interacting with others. If you and your partner decide that a Pennsylvania divorce is the best solution moving forward, you may worry about your child’s well-being.
According to the American SPCC, the majority of children whose parents divorce adapt well to life after the split when the parents get along. The way you and your spouse can work together typically determines the parenting style you adopt after your divorce.
Parallel parenting
If high tension leads to conflict between you and the other parent, parallel parenting may work for you. Both of you can remain an active part of your child’s life but have minimal contact with each other. When parallel parenting, discussions focus strictly on your child. Routine communication takes place exclusively through email or third-party apps.
Once you agree on a parenting plan that addresses holidays, vacation and visitation, you stick to the schedule. Each of you raises the child the way they see fit, without interference or input from the other.
Cooperative parenting
If you and the other parent can work together for the sake of your child, cooperative parenting may make sense. When parenting in this manner, you can communicate as needed in a way that best suits your needs. Discussions focus on your child and do not raise old relationship issues.
Your child’s best interests are the focus of each parenting style. Although very different, they both keep your child out of the middle of your issues with each other and enable you both to remain active in your child’s life, despite the divorce.