Acrimonious Separation
Barnardos released a report on the impact of acrimonious parental separation and inter-parental conflict on children. The report shows children are placed at risk of experiencing trauma, harm and poorer health, wellbeing and developmental outcomes, when there is continual conflict between parents.
We commissioned Amárach Research, who found that half of separated parents (51%) said communication was not possible or was extremely difficult around the time of separation, demonstrating high conflict and acrimony.
Barnardos targeted services support more than 2,000 children whose parents separated, of which 1,000 experienced inter-parental conflict.
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In the Amárach Research, of the parents who had separated:
- One third (35%) said it affected their ability to provide practical care.
- Half (49%) said it affected their child’s emotional wellbeing, anxiety and behaviour.
- Forty percent said it negatively impacted on children’s routines and stability.
- Half (48%) said it affected the child’s relationship with them or their other parent.
What parents we work with said
I was not in a good place when we separated so I was just existing and not focusing on my kids needs
I lost some emotional connection with my child. Child doesn't get enough attention or adult time as she would like.
It was a very difficult time when I sometimes made the wrong choices. Arguments in front of the young children. I believe that what they witnessed had a direct impact on their low confidence issues and their heightened anxiety.
Barnardos Recommends
- Targeted Intensive Family Support
Increase earlier and more intensive support for parents and their children around the issue of inter-parental conflict and separation, particularly for those dealing with numerous adversities, which may be exacerbated or caused by the stress of separation and conflict surrounding it.
- Awareness Raising
An awareness raising campaign should be developed by the Department of Justice for parents across the country, to better inform them of the impact entrenched parental conflict, particularly around separation, has on children and the need to resolve arguments in their presence.
- Universal Support
Expand access and provision of universal services, helping parents generally who might be struggling with inter-parental conflict around separation.