In preschool children, what is a possible reaction regarding parental divorce?

• A. The child may verbalize feelings of being the reason for the divorce.
• B. The child will understand legal terms.
• C. The child will show no emotional response.
• D. The child will blame one parent exclusively.

Answer: (A)

Preschoolers interpret big family changes through their own limited, concrete perspective and often engage in magical thinking about cause and effect. A common reaction is that a child verbalizes guilt or responsibility, saying they are the reason the parents are getting a divorce. This reflects their need to make sense of the situation and to regain a sense of control in a confusing time. They may outwardly express that it’s their fault, even though adults know the divorce isn’t caused by anything a child did.

Understanding legal terms isn’t expected at this age, since preschoolers think in immediate, concrete terms and focus on what directly affects their daily lives. It’s also unlikely they will show no emotional response; divorce typically triggers a range of emotions—sadness, confusion, fear, or anger. While some children may direct blame toward one parent, it’s more characteristic for preschoolers to internalize guilt rather than consistently blaming a specific parent.

To support them, provide simple, truthful explanations about what is changing, maintain routines, offer reassurance of ongoing love from both parents, and encourage expression of feelings through talking or play.