How Does Divorce Affect Girls?
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Female children are more likely to be sexually abused
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A number of studies have shown that female children whose parents have divorced face a higher chance of being sexually abused. Potential abusers include a parent, a parent's significant other and individuals outside of the family unit. The increased risk results from a variety of factors, including lack of parental awareness and decreased parental involvement due to the increased demands on the single parent. The best way for parents to address the situations is by being aware that this phenomenon exists and maintaining an open line of communication with the minor child at all times.
Female children are more likely to become teenage moms
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There is a direct correlation between divorce and increased sexual activity by female teenagers. This sexual activity often leads to childbearing out of wedlock and the corresponding social struggles that ensue when one has to raise a child alone. Young women in this group also run the risk of not completing their secondary education, furthering their financial demise.
Female children are more likely to have unsuccessful relationships
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A 1991 study that analyzed the long-term effects of divorce on children found that female children whose parents divorced were more likely to undergo a divorce themselves--60 percent more likely, in fact. Women in this group also have a tendency to make poor choices in their relationships, frequently leading to abuse.
Female children deserve extra consideration
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It is clear that when parents are divorcing and there is a female child in the family, extra care must be taken to ensure that she is supported in as many ways as possible, to avoid the negative consequences discussed in this article.
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