Final answer:
9- to 12-year-old adolescents commonly feel anger, sadness, shame, embarrassment, and might withdraw from social interactions and show a decline in school performance when their parents are divorcing. They are at a stage of seeking identity and peer acceptance, which makes the family changes more impactful. Strong parent-child relationships are crucial for better adjustment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The common feelings 9- to 12-year-old adolescents may experience when their parents are going through a divorce include a mix of emotional responses and behavioral changes. Given their developmental stage, school-aged children are likely to manifest:
Children at this age are developing a sense of identity, seeking independence, and are increasingly influenced by peer acceptance. This makes them particularly susceptible to feeling destabilized by the significant family change that a divorce represents. A strong parent-child relationship can greatly improve a child's adjustment to divorce, suggesting the necessity for effective communication and support during this period.