Economic impact of divorce on children's development: Current findings and policy implications

Examined the economic impact of divorce on families' functioning and children's mental health. U.S. Bureau of the Census (1992b, 1993) data on rates of divorce and remarriage are reviewed, as well as data on economic aspects that both predispose to and result from marital dissolution (Hernandez, 1992). Research regarding the impact of economic stress and poverty on family functioning and child mental health problems is discussed. I make Jive recommendations for social policy that emphasize the need for attention to economic aspects of divorce and their impact on children's and parents' adjustment and well being. Particular attention is devoted to the need for continuity in families' economic standard following divorce, enforcement of child support laws, and new treatment approaches to help children cope with their parents' divorce.