When parents in Texas decide to divorce, they may face challenges adapting to the co-parenting process. This is especially true if the marriage was marred by high levels of conflict and mistrust. At the same time, absent a situation of abuse or neglect, children generally benefit from a strong relationship with both parents. Of course, some divorced parents may attempt to involve their kids in disputes for emotionally manipulative purposes. There are several ways to successfully navigate the co-parenting process after a difficult divorce. 

Every ex should remember that they cannot change their former spouse. If they feel themselves reacting emotionally to the other parent’s actions and comments, they can work as hard as possible to avoid a visible reaction and confide in a therapist or friend. Shielding the children from the dispute may be a good idea following the emotional trauma of the divorce. In particular, former spouses should think about their patterns of communication and how they can stop participating in an unhealthy or damaging dynamic. Most people do not want to repeat the same argument pattern as co-parents that led to the end of the marriage.