Divorce: A Survivor’s Guide For Kids 2002
Distributed by Films Media Group, PO Box 2053, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-2053; 800-257-5126
Produced by John Heinz
Director n/a
VHS, color, 15 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Parenting, Psychology, Adolescence, Sociology
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Samantha Gust, Niagara University Library, Niagara University, NYWhen parents get divorced many children think they are to blame. This documentary video stresses that divorce is about adults, not children, but acknowledges that children are often emotionally affected and need help dealing with the ramifications of their parents’ divorce.
Through interviews with teens, divorced parents, psychologists and sociologists, viewers will learn how divorce may affect young people. Every situation is different, but many kids experience triangulation (being put in the middle between the two parents) as well as denial, anger, sadness, bargaining, acceptance and forgiveness. This video ends on a positive note by highlighting a family that has a fairly happy post-divorce arrangement. While encouraging, it might leave less fortunate teens feeling a little depressed.
The interviews are insightful, and the general information is informative. However, this video seems too brief for such a serious issue, although it will probably help some students. It also could be better organized. On the technical side, the sound and video quality are good.
Recommended with reservations.