The challenges spouses face with a second or third family are common because people frequently remarry after divorce. And when they do, more people are involved in their lives.
As pointed out in the article “How Can Couples Avoid the Pitfalls that Threaten a Second Marriage?” (Huffington Post), more players are now in your life — ex-spouses, step children, your current spouse and your children — along with all the extended family members, including four or more sets of grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. This bigger cast of characters opens up the possibilities of more conflicts, rivalries and breakdowns in communication.
Working out child custody arrangements means getting the ex and kids to agree on how to spend holidays and vacations. Finances become strained when you’re providing child support for several families of children. It may be hard to get onto the same page with your parenting styles too, which are often quite different.
So — How Do You Deal with These Challenges with a Second or Third Family?
The most important thing that one expert suggests is to develop a mindset of endurance. Don’t give up and stay the course. This alone can create stability.
Other suggestions include:
- Keeping communication open for all family members so you can find solutions to problems.
- Taking time off — at minimum several weekends — where you and your spouse spend time alone with each other.
- Being aware of red flags and seeking counseling if situations become intense.
- Expecting the rough times and being prepared to deal with them, especially during holidays and special occasions like birthdays, graduations and weddings.
Having problems with child support or custody post-divorce? Discuss them with a divorce lawyer.
If you’re struggling with child support or custody situations, discuss this concern with one of our attorneys at C.E. Borman & Associates. Sometimes circumstances change, and modifying child support or child custody orders becomes necessary. You can rely on our compassionate legal counsel to help you make the right decisions.
