Both parents have to realize that what ever dislikes or disagreements they had while they were married, must be put to the side after the divorce because their focus should go toward the emotions of the child(ren). It is important for natural parents to be cordial and respect each others position as a parent; this is essential especially if there is joint custody or visitation. Parents should not fight with one another especially in front of the children. If both parents are constantly fighting, then they will never be able to care for the child together and it puts the child in an awkward position and force the child to have resentment towards one parent. Therefore whoever has full custody should never degrade the other parent to the child or to anyone in front of the child. Remember the child loves both parents and the divorce is not their …show more content…
I have been married for four years now and being a stepparent still doesn’t come easy for me. My situation is unique; I have four step children all of whom live in Tennessee. The Children have always come down for the summer, and some holidays. I was one that thought I could come into the family and immediately blend. When you hear it takes time it does. The older three kids have not been raised to what I would consider my standards, so this was a problem for me. Instead of coinciding with my husband on a solution, I found I was isolating myself from the situation, which only contributes to more problems. The only way to come to an understanding was to interact with the kids, instead of isolating yourself from the problem. I realize this was an act of selfishness. I was so worried about my own lifestyle; I didn’t realize this behavior hurt him also. I thought since he was the natural parent, he approved everything I believe to be wrong, and I was afraid of expressing my feelings thinking it would hurt his, when all along he wanted that, so we could come to an agreement on how our household should be ran. This is why you must communicate and have patience in order to help the family