Angry Children of Divorce

Question:

I am writing to ask a question that has presented to me a number of times. I am an elementary school counselor and have worked in outpatient mental health as well. I hear many parents asking questions about the struggles they face when their child returns from visitation with the other parent. Most recently, a parent told me of him going to pick up his daughter and her screaming, yelling, hitting, and crying, saying things like “you don’t love me, I don’t live with you, you are mean to me.” The 6 year old finally cried herself to sleep for the remainder of the two hour ride home. My response to him was “you are not alone,” as I realize many times this happens. I advised him not to question her statements while she is that upset as she is likely confused and unable to process anything of logic during those episodes. He continued to question “what do I do when she hits like that in the vehicle?” That I was not sure how to answer and would appreciate any advice or reference to materials.