Adolescents from families of divorce: vulnerability to physiological and psychological disturbances.
Multiple factors contribute to the vulnerability of adolescents to physiological and psychological disturbances following parental divorce. These include father absence, interparental conflict, economic distress, multiple life stressors, parent adjustment, and short-term crisis. Clinical and societal problems manifested in these vulnerable adolescents are discussed. Systems theory is used to explain this vulnerability of adolescents and to identify appropriate interventions and policies to promote health in this population. Policies recommended include required divorce mediation, early referrals for family and sibling therapy, and school programs to identify and support those most vulnerable.
Thompson
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Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D004243:Divorce / Q000523:psychology*; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005196:Family Therapy; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008603:Mental Health; D011203:Poverty; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012572:School Health Services