Final answer:
Research suggests that divorce can have long-term negative effects on children, particularly in low-conflict homes. Proximity to parents and a strong parent-child relationship can help mitigate some of these effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research suggests that divorce can have negative effects on children. While it is true that divorce may provide an escape from high-conflict homes, most divorces occur in lower-conflict homes where children are more negatively impacted by the stress of divorce than by the stress of unhappiness in the marriage. Children often feel responsible for the divorce and may experience confusion and fear. Additionally, studies indicate that stress levels for children are not improved when they acquire a stepfamily through marriage.
Proximity to parents also plays a role in a child's well-being after divorce. Boys who live or have joint arrangements with their fathers show less aggression, while girls who live or have joint arrangements with their mothers tend to be more responsible and mature. However, a strong parent-child relationship can greatly improve a child's adjustment to divorce.
Overall, the evidence suggests that divorce can have long-term negative effects on children, particularly in low-conflict homes. It is important to consider the well-being of children when making decisions about divorce.