Episode Summary:

In this WBAP radio interview, Jennifer Hargrave—Compassionate Dallas Divorce Attorney and Managing Partner at Hargrave Family Law—addresses a recent study suggesting that children whose parents divorce before age five face increased risks of reduced earnings, teen pregnancy, and incarceration. Jennifer challenges this narrative, pointing to the real issue: parental conflict, not divorce itself.

She explains how financial instability, especially in the early developmental years, can impact outcomes—but stresses that co-parenting and continued parental engagement are far more predictive of a child’s long-term success. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of reducing conflict and staying active in children’s lives post-divorce, and cautions against deterministic labels that can cause more harm than good. She also highlights that staying in a high-conflict relationship can be more damaging to children than a thoughtful, well-managed separation.

Refined Transcript:

Host: I saw this headline—children of divorce have reduced earnings, higher chances of teen pregnancy, and jail. It almost sounds like a stereotype, but I wonder, is it true? Especially for kids whose parents divorce when they’re five or younger?

Jennifer Hargrave: That’s a great question. What I’ve seen in my work is that the real driver of instability and poor outcomes for children is not divorce itself, but parental conflict. Divorce definitely introduces challenges—like splitting one household into two, which can strain financial resources—but the ability of parents to co-parent and remain involved makes a significant difference.

One issue the study raised is that sometimes a parent disengages after divorce, and that’s incredibly harmful. We always encourage our clients to create a life post-divorce where both parents remain active and involved in their children’s lives.

Host: Any thoughts on why the study specifically focuses on kids under five?

Jennifer Hargrave: I suspect it’s because early childhood is such a formative time. If the family’s financial stability is shaken, it can impact access to better neighborhoods, schools, and support. But I also find that younger children can often adapt more easily to change compared to teens. Ironically, many parents think teens don’t need them as much—but that’s actually a very sensitive and vulnerable time.

Host: Ever just want to strangle both parents sitting across from you?

Jennifer Hargrave: (laughs) There are definitely heightened moments! But I see them as opportunities. I truly believe most people are doing the best they can with the information and resources they have. That’s why we focus so much on educating and empowering our clients—because a better life for the kids also means a better life for the parents.

Host: I never remember my parents being married—and I turned out fine, aside from a small fire-starting phase!

Jennifer Hargrave: (laughs) Exactly. These studies can unintentionally send the message that kids of divorce are doomed—and that’s just not true. What’s more damaging is staying in a high-conflict relationship. Kids go through their own grief and transition, but with support and care, they absolutely can and do thrive.