subject: How Group Therapy Can Help Children From Divorced Parents [print this page] "Nowadays, it is not uncommon for many children to come from divorced homes. These students face a number of personal and social problems, which consist of loneliness, blaming oneself for the divorce, experiencing divided loyalties, not knowing how to deal with parental conflicts, and facing the loss of family stability.
It is very helpful to assess the needs of children before deciding on a therapeutic program. Conduct a survey that allows students to have a direct role in determining areas of concern that they are open to and are willing to deal with. At the end of the survey, space is provided for students to write in detail about specific feelings or situations they would like to know about.
Before starting the session, the rules are discussed. They are informed that if anyone wishes to discontinue attending the sessions, they are free to do so. Children always have the right to remain silent. But see to it that you encourage the shy ones to open up. Reinforce the importance of learning from one another. Some students feel more comfortable knowing that they will never be forced to share or discuss any issue that they feel is private. Other rules include giving each one an opportunity to speak and be listened to, never laughing or making fun of whatever is shared to the group, being honest, and keeping everything confidential.
Explain the reasons for the rules so that the chances that the children will abide by them increases. Finally, a form of contract shall be signed by all, making a commitment and agreement to follow the rules.
Here are some important messages that these kids should remember during these sessions:
* You are special. * It is not your fault. * You can overcome these hardships. * Your parents' split was not because of you. * You have people who care about you. * Your parents are divorcing each other. They are not divorcing you. It's not your divorce. * You did not cause the problems between your parents, and you can't fix them. * You can help each other. (referring to the group)
This therapy session has the goal to provide support when it is badly needed and to let the children understand that they are not to blame and that they are not alone. This is to reinforce the student's need to talk and be able to cop up with the current situation and deal with their feelings and thoughts. They in turn can develop coping mechanisms and be able to create an open communication with other students, teachers and their parents, of course. They can overcome their emotional problems and behavioral concerns.
by: Greg Pierce
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