Change and Continuity after Parental Separation

Abstract

This article presents findings from a qualitative, interview-based study of children aged 8-12, conducted in the Irish Republic, which focused on children's experiences of change in family life following parental separation. A good deal of continuity was evident in core aspects of children's lives, such as residence and caregiving, and there were high levels of contact with non-resident parents and extended families. Children adapted best when they felt confident of contact with non-resident parents and received reassurances from both parents of their commitment to their relationships with children.