Following divorce, a move to a new location may be necessary for a variety of reasons such as remarriage, a new job, a fresh start or to be closer to family. However, if you have kids in middle school, you may want to think twice.
According to a recently released study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, moving to a new residence, which may result in your children attending new schools, can be harmful to adolescent children.
In fact, the results of the study found that children who face disruptions at this time in their lives may be at increased risk of attempted suicide, substance abuse and violent criminality as adults.
Researchers attribute the poor outcomes, that span all socioeconomic youth populations, to the stress of adapting to a new environment while simultaneously going through significant biological and developmental transitions.
Relocating your family following a divorce may be necessary for economic or other reasons. However, if adolescents are involved, the research indicates it may be better to stay put while they tackle middle school at least.
Source: Pacific Standard, “The Hidden Costs of Uprooting Your Family”, by Tom Jacobs, June 7, 2016.