02 November 2023 by Pascalinah Kabi

According to a 2021 research study on the impact of divorce on children, individuals affected by parental divorce have a higher risk of developing various mental health conditions, including emotional and behavioural disorders. Some children exhibit poor school performance, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, distress, smoking, and substance abuse.

“In our clinical practice, we have also observed a range of emotional, behavioural, psychosomatic, and conversion disorders in children, especially in pre-adolescents and adolescents, both before and after their parents’ separation or divorce.

“Children often lack the information and skills needed to navigate the challenges that divorce brings. The biggest obstacle they face is the conflicting relationships between their parents, making it difficult for a child to successfully cope with the changes in the family,” reads the report.

Like many other countries around the world, Lesotho experienced an increase in divorce cases in recent past, some of which have even garnered attention on social media. In this podcast, we delve into the challenges faced by children in Lesotho, explore how Manners4Minors is aiding children cope with their challenges through a concept known as “Living in Two Houses,” and discuss the limitations of this approach.