If you are a divorced parent of Maryland teenagers, you may be experiencing difficulty after finding a new beau. Teens may decide they do not like their mom or dad’s new partner or spouse. This is a significant child-rearing issue. Parents stand to lose a lot in this situation. Their teens could become less respectful. The parent could also lose the love of their new partner. Experts say there are ways to help everyone get along.
Parents need to stand strong in their commitment to their new partner. Children model the decisions and behaviors of their parents. If your children do not like your new partner, but you are committed to that person, you need to be firm. Kids will learn poor character if you rush to defend them every time they are supposedly ‘wronged’ by your new partner.
Try to empathize with the way your children feel. Many kids want parents to themselves. They do not want to share. Parents still deserve to be happy. Unless the children have a valid reason for their disdain of your partner, they still have to be respectful. Kids sometimes dislike their parents’ new partners because they think they have lost their families.
Also, try to empathize with your new partner. Your new husband or wife needs to realize that you will be firm even when the children are acting out. Further, a girlfriend or boyfriend is not responsible for ensuring that the kids are raised properly. Try not to put too much pressure on your partner.
Many child-rearing issues arise during shared custody situations. Adults must continue living their lives while integrating their children’s needs. Use compromise and appropriate legal strategies to promote the best interests of the child.
Source: Huffington Post, “Man Up to Your Children: Do Not Let Them Determine Your Love Life” Sherrie Campbell, Jan. 24, 2014
