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All families are works in progress... |
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Description | More From
the Teens
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Divorce and Stepfamilies: Breaking Apart, Coming Together I never used to think divorce was that bad. I was wrong. It's awful. --Amanda, 17
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Amanda is one of a million young people in the U.S. who are involved
in new divorces each year. Do you know someone like her? Chances are,
you do. The reality is that half of all American youth will experience
the break-up of their parents' marriage and its aftermath. Along with
that can come mental and physical problems like depression, eating
disorders, violence, and drug abuse. 
In
Dartmouth, Massachusetts, we join the town's long established "Banana
Splits" program in which high school teens who have dealt with
their parents' divorces mentor children in grades 4-6 who are trying
to cope with similar situations. At Hunterdon High School in New Jersey,
we meet students who come together in a support group to explore solutions
to problems such as custody arrangements, visitation, and building
new relationships with single parents. We also meet an interracial
stepfamily from Long Island, New York to see see how four teens and
their parents have successfully worked through many difficult issues
to come together as a close "blended" household. 
If
you've ever thought, "My parents splitting up is my fault,"
know that you're not alone, but also know that this feeling is one
of the most common myths surrounding children of divorce. You may
also be familiar with emotions like anger, guilt, shame, fear, denial,
confusion, and sadness. Again...you're not alone! This In the Mix
special reminds young people that help -- and hope -- is out there.
Says Jeanine, 17: "You will feel better over time. It's a gradual
process." 
Divorce
doesn't hit home for you? This In the Mix episode also offers
useful insight and advice for parents and friends. The message is
clear: regardless of how it affects you, it's more than just OK to
talk about the issues created by divorce and remarriage...In fact,
it's essential.
"Divorce
and Stepfamilies: Breaking Apart, Coming Together" was funded by Ronald
McDonald House Charities. The program is regularly re-broadcast on
PBS affiliates across the country. Please check our