Parental absence

Parental absence is the temporary or extended absence of one or more parent. This can have a substantial effect on the psychology of the child, depending on for example their age at separation, the context of the separation ( eg divorce, legal seperation) and the length of time involved.

Consequences can be clinical in nature for example anaclitic depression and seperation anxiety and various behavioral problems can ensue. On the plus side some children can develop increased independence and a stronger sense of self confidence and self esteem