The Impact of Family Conflicts and Divorce on Children’s Psychological State

Abstract

This scientific article discusses family conflicts and divorce. The main causes of divorce and disagreements include fathers’ betrayal toward their children and family, violence under the influence of alcohol, and avoidance of family responsibilities.

Keywords:

Family, divorce, family conflicts, violence, fatherless children, psychology of girls, social adaptation

Introduction

The family is one of the most important units of society. Its environment plays a significant role in the development of children as individuals. A healthy family is the foundation of a stable society. However, today, family conflicts and divorces cause serious psychological problems in society. These situations especially manifest in the mental and emotional state of children.

Although divorce is often assessed as a problem between husband and wife, it leaves deep and unforgettable marks in the lives of children.

Main Causes of Family Conflicts and Divorce

Experience shows that one of the main reasons for divorce is fathers’ insufficient understanding of their family responsibilities and their indifferent attitude toward them. A father in the family should be not only a material provider but also a moral support. In some cases, fathers’ negligence toward the family, betrayal, or defining everything by money undermines the atmosphere of trust in the household.

In addition, alcohol consumption is one of the factors that intensifies family conflicts. Violence arising under the influence of alcohol negatively affects not only the relationship between spouses but also the psychological state of children.

The Effect of Violence and Stress on Children’s Psychology

Children growing up in a violent family environment experience constant stress. Stress is the body’s response to negative external factors, and when prolonged, it negatively impacts the child’s physical development. Such children often have high levels of anxiety and fear, and their self-confidence is significantly reduced.

According to psychological research, children who witness family quarrels often experience:

Low self-esteem compared to peers

Difficulty in social adaptation

Persistent fear and anxiety

Psychosomatic and health-related psychological problems

These children struggle to express their thoughts freely.

The Psychological State of Fatherless Children

After divorce, in many cases, the father leaves the family, and children grow up without a father. Some children grow up without ever seeing their father. In such children, the internal need and longing for a father are strong, and sometimes even the sound of a door knocking sparks the hope that “maybe my father has come.” This reflects the unstable expectations and emotional void in the child’s inner world.

Fatherless children grow up craving affection. Mothers often try to give them love both as a mother and father, giving all they can, but a father’s love cannot be fully replaced. A father’s love is different and unique; every child has a personal place for the father that no one else can fill.

Fatherless girls often express themselves through education. Psychologically, girls who grow up without a father are forced to mature earlier. According to multiple studies, these girls demonstrate strong goal-oriented behavior. Among girls whose fathers left, the desire to support their mothers and make them happy is often very strong. Consequently, they strive for education, self-improvement, and earning a respected position in society. For them, knowledge is not only a means of development but also a tool to overcome life’s challenges.

At the same time, such girls have strong spiritual needs. Specifically, the need for a father’s moral support and prayers often remains unfulfilled. Receiving a father’s blessing (oq fotihasi) becomes a lifelong longing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, family conflicts and divorces represent a serious psychological issue for society. The greatest victims of these processes are children, who grow up with trust issues and health-related problems. In particular, girls who grow up without a father face greater challenges in life.

References

Scientific sources on family and psychology.

Articles on social psychology and the consequences of divorce.

A brief introduction about myself: My name is Orinboyeva Zarina. I was born on April 1, 2011, in Oqdaryo District, Samarkand Region. Currently, I am an 8th-grade student at School No. 43 in Oqdaryo District, Samarkand Region.

I have participated in numerous projects and competitions and am the holder of several international certificates. Twice, my creative work has been published in an American journal and once in the district newspaper. I have also participated in a conference in Germany and serve as a volunteer in Samarkand city.

For my creative works, I was awarded the “Hope of the Nation” badge. I also participated in the district stage of the Zulfiyakhonim Award. My creative works are indexed on Google, and I am a member of the Argentine Writers’ Association.

These achievements are just the beginning, Inshallah. I plan to continue developing myself and achieving many more accomplishments. I hope to present my creative works personally to our respected President one day. My ultimate goal is to become an outstanding journalist, admired and envied by all.