Understanding the facts surrounding divorce is important if you and your spouse are considering ending your marriage in New Jersey. Many misconceptions about divorce might lead you to make bad decisions. Whether these misconceptions are about the divorce rate or how divorce affects children, knowing the facts might help you make more informed decisions.
Confusion about the divorce rate
While many people know that the divorce rate has been dropping, the rate most mentioned for divorce is 50%. However, this is a divorce misconception, as the rate is lower in general, at about 39%. The rate, however, also depends on the age of the married couple, and while the rate, in general, has been dropping, the rate for older couples, those over 50, is increasing.
The financial effects on the children
When parents are considering divorce, the main concern is often how the divorce will affect the children. While the focus is often on the emotional effects, divorce can also affect children’s quality of life. Often, it is believed that the custodial parent will receive financial support from the non-custodial parent, but this is not always the case. Some of the facts about the way divorce affects children include:
• 50% of custodial mothers and 30% of custodial fathers receive child support
• Less than 50% of parents who are awarded child support receive the entire amount
• Custodial parents often struggle financially and cannot fight for the support their children need
• The rate of poverty for children who grow up with custodial mothers is about 29%
Taking the step to seek a divorce is a difficult decision. However, if you know all the facts and understand how it will affect you and your family, you will be able to plan Misconceptions about divorce and make a decision you can be more confident about.