7 Ways Marital Infidelity Harms Children

Infidelity is a serious issue that can have a profound impact on a family. Marital infidelity is one of the more common underlying reasons for New Jersey divorces. Marital infidelity can create a ripple effect of hurt and pain that extends far beyond the immediate couple. It can have devastating effects on children in the marriage who may feel like they have been betrayed by the people they trust the most. In this article, we explore seven of the most significant ways in which infidelity affects children:

• Emotional distress
• Trust issues
• Low self esteem
• Withdrawal
• Relationship problems
• Academic problems
• Physical issues

One of the most common ways in which infidelity can harm children is through emotional distress. Children may feel confused, anxious, angry, or sad when they find out about a parent's infidelity. They may feel as though their world has been turned upside down and that they no longer have a sense of stability. They may be caught in the middle of their parents' arguments and may feel as though they have to choose sides. This can cause a great deal of distress for children, who may feel overwhelmed and helpless. Truly, marital infidelity can turn a child’s emotional life upside down.

Infidelity can also create trust issues for children. When a parent cheats on their spouse, it can be difficult for children to trust that parent or other adults in their lives. They may become suspicious of others and may have difficulty forming healthy relationships in the future. They may believe that if a parent can cheat on their spouse, then anyone can cheat on them. This can lead to trust issues that can impact their relationships in the future.

Children may also blame themselves for their parent's infidelity, leading to feelings of worthlessness and low self-esteem. They may wonder if they weren't good enough or if they did something wrong, causing their parent to stray. These feelings can have a lasting impact on their self-esteem and self-worth. Children may struggle with feelings of guilt and shame, which can negatively impact their mental health.

As a result of their emotional distress, children may act out or become withdrawn. They may become angry or resentful towards their parents or act out in school or with friends. Alternatively, they may become withdrawn and isolate themselves from others. This can make it difficult for children to form healthy relationships and can lead to further emotional distress.

Marital infidelity can also create relational problems for children. They may struggle to form healthy relationships in the future due to their experiences with infidelity. They may have difficulty trusting others, which can lead to problems in forming healthy relationships. Additionally, they may have difficulty with intimacy or may avoid relationships altogether. Studies suggest that many individuals who cheat on their spouses had parents who did the same when they were children.

In some cases, children may also experience academic problems due to emotional distress caused by their parents' infidelity. They may have difficulty concentrating in school or may experience a decline in academic performance. They may be distracted by the turmoil at home or may feel too overwhelmed to focus on their studies.

Finally, infidelity can also have an impact on children's physical health. Children may experience physical health problems such as headaches, stomachaches, or sleep disturbances due to the stress of their parents' infidelity. The emotional distress caused by their parents' infidelity can have a significant impact on their physical health.

It is important for parents to understand the impact that their actions can have on their children. While infidelity can be a difficult situation to navigate, it is important to prioritize the well-being of the children involved. Seeking counseling or therapy can be a helpful way for families to work through the emotional aftermath of infidelity and support their children through the process.

In conclusion, infidelity can have devastating effects on children in a marriage. Therefore, it's important for parents to handle this issue with care and sensitivity to minimize the negative impact on their children. Parents should prioritize their children's well-being and seek professional help if necessary to work through the emotional aftermath of infidelity. If you have any questions regarding a New Jersey divorce, call (201) 845-7400 for a free consultation.