UNAIR NEWS – Data from the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) shows that about 4.79 percent of families in Indonesia experience marital conflict that leads to separation or divorce. This situation has contributed to the rise of broken homes, or family dysfunction. Addressing the issue, psychology expert Atika Dian Ariana MSc MPsi from Universitas Airlangga stressed the importance of parents’ roles in protecting children’s mental health.
Ariana explained that a broken home, or family dysfunction, occurs when a family is no longer able to function effectively. In such situations, children’s mental development often becomes the main concern, as they are directly affected by conflicts between adults. “From a psychological standpoint, a broken home emerges when intense or prolonged conflict disrupts family harmony and functioning, ultimately affecting all members of the household, especially children,” she said.
Signs and impacts of broken homes
According to Ariana, the effects of family dysfunction on children are often reflected in noticeable changes in their daily behavior. Children experiencing such conditions frequently withdraw from social interactions due to declining self-confidence. “They often show less interest in engaging with peers, experience a drop in academic performance, and display emotional shifts such as anger, anxiety, or excessive fear. This can happen because the sense of trust that should develop within the family is disrupted,” she explained.
She further noted that there are two situations in which children may need professional support from psychologists, counselors, or psychiatrists. The first occurs when changes in behavior become increasingly severe. The second arises when the family is unable to provide emotional support or maintain healthy communication, particularly when violence is involved. “In such cases, children should be placed in a safer environment and receive proper mental health assistance from professionals,” she added.
Importance of parental roles
Ariana emphasized that parents play a vital role in maintaining children’s psychological well-being, even when the family is experiencing conflict. Several factors may influence a child’s mental health, including an unhealthy environment, poor communication, and limited parental involvement in a child’s development.
However, not every child from a broken home experiences mental health difficulties. This can happen when parents continue to carry out their responsibilities effectively. “Open communication can help children express their emotions, while consistent guidance prevents them from feeling isolated,” she said.
From a child development perspective, adults also need to understand children’s level of maturity, both in terms of age and emotional readiness. Younger children generally require closer supervision and guidance, while older children may benefit more from open dialogue and emotional support.
Ariana emphasized that children should never be considered the cause of family conflict. “Conflicts occur between adults. Therefore, children should stay focused on their goals and aspirations. What happens in the family today does not determine their future,” she concluded.
Author: Putri Andini
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
