People have long understood that children who grow up in single-parent homes tend to face challenges and struggles at a higher rate than those who grow up with both parents in the household throughout childhood.  However, professional researchers continue to analyze this issue in an effort to pinpoint risk factors that can be used to help families who face these situations.  A recent study has apparently shed more light on this issue.

According to a study performed by researchers in Australia, when a father is not present in the home throughout a boy's childhood, the child tends to face a much higher probability of engaging in risk-taking behaviors that can lead to legal trouble.  However, the same study revealed that girls who grow up without a father in the home do not face a higher risk for engaging in delinquent behavior.  The researchers used statistics compiled with regards to children in the United States.

As stated above, most people have long understood that children face more problems on average when both parents are not in the home during childhood.  It is seen as a significant finding, though, that there appears to be a distinct gender difference when it comes to the risks faced by young people.  No definitive facts or theories have yet been presented in an effort to explain these findings.

San Diego Divorce Lawyers

Clearly, the findings of this study do not tell people that they should not be concerned about pursuing a divorce if they have daughters instead of sons.  All children who endure the difficult process of watching their parents end their marriage suffer in some regard.  However, there are still situations where parents need to bring about change to end a dysfunctional cycle.

If you are facing the end of your marriage and you're not sure how you should proceed, you need to seek the help of experienced San Diego divorce lawyers who have helped many people move on with their lives.  Contact the law office of James D. Scott today to schedule an initial consultation.