Marriage is a wonderful journey that demands dedication, perseverance, and unconditional love to nurture a strong bond. When couples opt to end their marriage, managing the repercussions on themselves and their families, particularly their children, can be challenging.
In Nigeria, the frequency of marital separations is rising, with divorce rates escalating, a shift from past times when elders served as voices of wisdom. Various missteps can occur during the separation or divorce process, triggering intense emotional distress with far-reaching implications on the couples and their families.
Engagement in Threats
Threatening separation is a common error made by many men in marriages to exert control over their partner. Although separation might be necessary for one’s safety and well-being in a toxic marriage, the emotional impact can vary based on each spouse’s readiness for the decision. Both parties should carefully consider the implications.
Rash Decisions
Leaping into a new relationship immediately after a separation from a past love can exacerbate the situation, particularly if children are involved. Introducing a new partner prematurely can heighten the emotional turmoil for the family, causing confusion and apprehension among the children as they grapple with their parents’ separation.
Acting out of Anger
Feelings of bitterness and resentment are common post-separation emotions that can lead to vindictive behavior, including divulging private details about one’s spouse to outsiders. This vengeful and irrational conduct can damage not only the spousal relationship but also other relationships within and outside the family, alienating loved ones in the process.
Deception
Children should not bear the burden of their parents’ failed relationship. Seeking sympathy and loyalty from children during a separation can strain family dynamics, potentially casting one parent in a negative light. Misleading children with fabricated stories about marital issues can jeopardize their emotional well-being and should be avoided.