Final answer:
Children's responses to adversity such as divorce depend significantly on their age and resilience. Older children and teenagers have different coping mechanisms and understanding of family breakdown, while a strong parent-child relationship also plays a pivotal role. Coping skills are critical throughout various stages of child development.
Step-by-step explanation:
One important factor with respect to children coping with adversity, such as the impacts of divorce, is the child’s age. Research indicates that school-aged children may find divorce particularly challenging as they are cognizant of the separation yet lack the maturity to fully comprehend its reasons. Resilience and coping abilities are also crucial for handling stressors. For instance, older teenagers, while they understand the conflicts behind a divorce, may experience feelings of fear and loneliness, reflecting various responses based on their developmental stage.
Proximity to parents following a divorce is another influential aspect, as children who maintain joint arrangements often exhibit less aggression or increased responsibility. A strong parent-child relationship can significantly enhance a child's adjustment to such family changes. Conditions like child abuse cross socioeconomic and cultural lines, but parental resilience to stress can help mitigate potential abuse risks, further illustrating how important coping mechanisms are to the welfare of children facing adversities.