How Parents’ High-Conflict Emotions Spread to Children in Divorce

How Parents’ High-Conflict Emotions Spread to Children in Divorce

From The Legal Podcast Network by The Legal Podcast Network (LPN)

May 5, 2026 · 13 min · Episode 1927

About this episode

This episode explores how high-conflict emotions in divorce affect children and emphasizes the importance of self-management and empathy for parents.

In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Law, Therapy and Justice, host Caitlin Burgess, a licensed marriage and family therapist and attorney, is joined by Bill Eddie, a clinical social worker, attorney, and co-founder of the High Conflict Institute. They delve into the complex dynamics of high conflict divorce, focusing on how intense emotions can permeate family systems and affect children. Bill explains the contagious nature of emotions within families and how children absorb these emotions, often leading to behavioral changes and strained relationships with parents. The discussion highlights the importance of self-management skills for parents and the role of empathy in supporting children through these challenging times. This episode provides valuable insights for parents, therapists, and legal professionals on managing emotional intensity and fostering healthier family interactions during divorce.

People in this episode

Host: Caitlin Burgess

Guest: Bill Eddie

Topics covered

  • high conflict divorce
  • emotional dynamics
  • children and divorce
  • self-management skills
  • empathy in family
  • behavioral changes

Keywords

  • high conflict divorce
  • children
  • emotions
  • family therapy
  • behavioral changes
  • self-management
  • empathy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: High Conflict Institute

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