Information for Professionals

Although most children do not have serious problems after a divorce, some do. Common problems include aggression, poor grades, feeling sad or angry, and poor relationships with family and friends. Divorce is difficult for mothers and fathers too. Parents need to cope with many strong feelings and all the changes that have occurred after the divorce or separation.

If you work with families going through divorce you may find yourself wondering how you can help them. The New Beginnings Program is the most extensively evaluated program for divorced or separated families and has been selected as a model program by Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development (www.blueprintsprograms.com). For more in depth description of the research on the program click on the Research Findings tab. The following benefits of the New Beginnings Program have been found in three randomized controlled trials. Positive program effects last up to 15 years after participation.

Children

• Have fewer behavior problems
• Do better in school
• Have higher self-esteem
• Are less likely to use drugs and alcohol
• Are better behaved at home

Parents

• Have more fun with their children
• Deal with rule breaking and acting out more effectively
• Feel less stress and tension
• Are less depressed
• Feel better about themselves as a parent

Separate groups are offered for mothers and fathers and both parents do not need to participate. Groups range in size from 6 to 10.