Why Bad Mouthing Your Ex-spouse Is Harmful to Your Kids

Divorce Lawyer

If you are currently in the middle of a divorce, you may have many hard feelings toward your ex. You may even be tempted to bad mouth him or her every chance you get. However, you shouldn’t do this in front of your children. They are already going through a tough time, and hearing bad things about their parent might make things worse. 

Here are a few reasons why you should not talk poorly about your ex-spouse in front of your kids.

Your Ex-spouse Is Still a Part of Your Children

No matter how much you might dislike your ex-spouse, you must remember that he or she is still a big part of your kids. If your children hear you calling your ex stupid, manipulative or worthless, they might assume that they are too.

Your Children Should Have a Healthy Relationship with the Other Parent

Every child deserves to have a loving and healthy relationship with both parents. However, if you’re constantly bashing your ex in front of your kids, they might start to have negative thoughts about him or her too. They may have difficulty getting closer to the other parent because they always think about negative things you said about your ex.

Your Children Will Be in the Middle

The last thing you want to do is put your children in the middle of you and your ex. However, if you frequently talk poorly about your ex in front of your kids, they might feel like they have to choose a side. This can put them in a very uncomfortable situation. 

How to Reduce the Emotional Toll of Divorce on Children

Now that you understand how harmful it is to bad mouth your ex in front of your children, you want to avoid it at all costs. While you don’t have to praise your ex-spouse, you should not insult him or her either. Encourage your kids to spend time with your ex instead of making them feel guilty about it.

If you feel a lot of anger towards your ex, talk to a trusted friend or family member when your kids aren’t around. You may also consider speaking to a professional counselor.

If you are planning to get a divorce, you may want to talk to a divorce lawyer, like one from The Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A., soon.