& year old Boy

I have recently divorced from my husband of 7 years.  He was abusive both verbally and physically.  He did it in front of the children on several occasions.  

I have three children.  One 9 year old, one 7 year old, and one 3 year old.  

The 7 year old boy has been acting out, being rude, very defiant, and always talking back.  He also cries like he has been seriously hurt whenever someone does something he doesn't like.  He also has a problem with lying.  All of these things together I have no clue where to begin with discipline, ignoring, talking thru, or anything.  Since the divorce he has stated several times "i wish i was dead"  "god please kill me"  and "i want to just die"  all of the times he has said this he has been disciplined for something bad.  If I discipline him for the wrongs he is doing he would be in trouble all day long.  This is a complete change from his former self, which was basically happy.  

The other two children do have some sad moments but they are managable.  

I need some help as to what I should and Shouldn't do.  

Andrea

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Your son is displaying symptoms of emotional disturbance common to children who have been exposed to the experiences you describe. You should arrange an evaluation for him with a pediatric mental health clinican. If you are not sure where to turn, ask his pediatrician for guidance and for a referral or recommendation.