Families Change Teen Guide to Separation & Divorce

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Welcome to A Teen Guide to Parental Separation and Divorce. If your parents have recently separated or divorced (or you think they may be about to), or you have a friend in that situation, this site is for you.

Parental separation and divorce are hard on teens. One thing that can help is information — about what separation and divorce mean in Canada, and how they might affect you.

  • The purpose of this site is to provide you with that information. The site is not intended to provide therapy, support or legal advice.
  • Do you have younger brothers or sisters? If so, get them to check out the Kids site.

What's Happening and Why — What separation and divorce mean, some of the reasons why they happen, and why you are not the reason for your parents' separation or divorce

Changes in Your Life — Things that are most likely to change in your life when your parents separate or divorce, some things that probably won't change, and some tips on getting used to change and getting on with your life

Your Emotions — Common feelings teens have when their parents separate or divorce, and some tips on how to deal with them

Strategies — Strategies for dealing with some of the new situations you might experience when your parents separate or divorce

About the Law — Outlines the laws about separation and divorce in Canada, with a list of key words and definitions

Resources — People who can help, and more sources of information

FAQ — Some Frequently Asked Questions about parental separation and divorce

This Web site was developed by the Justice Education Society of BC, with contributions from the British Columbia Ministry of Attorney General and financial assistance from the Department of Justice, Canada. The Alberta version of this website was reviewed and updated by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta.

Q & A

Q:
I have so many questions. How much can I ask my parents?
A:

If there are things you need to know, ask. You have a right to ask questions about what is going to happen and why.

Q:
If my parents divorce, will the same thing happen to me?
A:

Many teens whose parents split up feel anxious about their own relationships in the future. But just because your parents split up doesn't mean the same thing will happen to you. What happens in your relationships will be up to you, not your parents!

Q:
I really feel like I need some help. Who should I ask?
A:

There are lots of people around you who can help. Tell your parents, teacher, school counsellor, family doctor or another adult you trust.

If you aren't getting the help you think you need, keep asking until you get it.

Q:
Can I do anything to get my parents back together?
A:

Most parents split up only after trying very hard to save their relationship. Some teens hope and believe that if they try to be on their very best behaviour, their parents will get back together.

However, this plan isn't likely to work, since their parents' decision to split up had nothing to do with them. Their decision to separate or divorce is usually final.

Q:
My parents are splitting up. Why?
A:

There are many reasons why parents decide to split up. And with each couple, there might be one main reason, or a whole pile of reasons.

Parents usually try very hard to solve their problems before they take action. If you're not sure what your parents' reasons are for splitting up, you can always ask.