Supporting children during separation and family conflict
Separation and divorce are not the same as abuse. But threats, harm, or controlling behavior deserve attention in any family. Keep the child's safety and voice at the center.
Everyday examples
- Listen without making the child take sides or carry messages between adults.
- Do not ask the child to investigate, rehearse answers, or gather proof.
- If abuse is a concern, ask a domestic-violence advocate about safety planning for visits and exchanges.
One next step
Talk with a qualified advocate or lawyer about safety and legal options. In immediate danger, contact emergency services.
Remember
- Abuse is never a child's fault.
- You do not have to collect proof before asking for help.
- You are not responsible for stopping adult violence.
- You do not have to physically intervene or protect everyone yourself.
- You can care about someone and still need protection from them.
In immediate danger, call 911 when it is safe to do so. Choosing any button on this site does not dispatch help or file a report.