Divorce is often an emotionally charged process, with tensions running high as both parties navigate their way through the end of a marriage. The legal, financial and personal implications of divorce can make it difficult for couples to communicate effectively.
However, while disagreements are common, there are steps divorcing couples can take to minimize arguments during this stressful period. With the right mindset and tools, couples can avoid unnecessary conflict and focus on reaching a fair and amicable resolution.
Set clear goals and boundaries
One of the first steps in reducing conflict during divorce is to establish clear goals for the process. These might include:
- Safeguarding the well-being of children
- Preserving assets
- Maintaining a respectful communication style
Once these goals are in place, divorcing couples should set boundaries on how they will communicate and interact with each other. Clear boundaries could include:
- Limiting discussions about contentious issues
- Communicating through legal support systems
If emotions tend to escalate during conversations, setting specific rules for communication can help. For example, divorcing couples can agree to discuss legal and financial matters only via email or text, where tone can be controlled and responses can be more thoughtful.
Keep children out of the conflict
If children are involved in the divorce, keeping them out of conflicts is essential. To minimize emotional harm to children during a divorce, parents should avoid discussing the details of their separation in front of them and try to make sure the children are not put in the middle as messengers or used for leverage.
Instead, they should focus on co-parenting in a respectful and collaborative way. This can involve making joint decisions about the children’s future with their best interests at heart and communicating those decisions calmly.
While divorce is rarely easy, divorcing couples should know that it doesn’t have to be defined by constant conflict. By setting clear goals and boundaries, having independent legal support systems and keeping children out of the conflict, divorcing couples can minimize arguments during the divorce period.