Emancipated Minor: The Implications for Mental Health
Abstract
This paper examines the implications of emancipated minors on mental health. It looks at the definition of emancipation, the reasons why minors choose to become emancipated, and the effects of emancipation on mental health. It also discusses potential solutions to help improve the mental health of emancipated minors.
Introduction
An emancipated minor is a person under the age of 18 who is legally independent of their parents or guardians. This can include minors who have been granted a court order of emancipation, those who have been legally married, or those who are in the armed forces (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2016). The purpose of emancipation is to allow minors to gain independence from their parents or guardians, allowing them to make decisions about their lives without parental consent or control.
Despite this, there is still a lack of understanding and awareness of the implications of emancipation on mental health. This paper will examine the definition of emancipation, the reasons why minors choose to become emancipated, and the effects of emancipation on mental health.
Definition of Emancipation
Emancipation is defined as a court-ordered process in which a minor is granted the legal rights and responsibilities of an adult (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2016). This includes the right to enter into contracts, sue, and be sued, open bank accounts, and make decisions about their own health care. Emancipation does not mean that the minor is completely independent, as they still need to abide by the law.
Reasons for Emancipation
There are many reasons why a minor may choose to become emancipated. These may include:
• To escape an abusive or unstable home environment;
• To pursue an education or career;
• To gain access to health care;
• To gain access to financial resources, such as bank accounts or loans;
• To gain the right to make decisions about their own lives without the consent or control of their parents or guardians.
Effects of Emancipation on Mental Health
The effects of emancipation on mental health are complex and varied, depending on the individual’s circumstances. It can be a difficult and stressful process, as the minor is suddenly responsible for taking care of their own finances, health care, and other aspects of their life. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Additionally, the lack of support from parents or guardians can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This can be compounded by the fact that the minor is often not eligible for government assistance, such as food stamps or housing, due to their lack of legal status as an adult.
Conclusion
Emancipation is a difficult and stressful process, and can have a significant impact on the mental health of the minor. It is important for those involved in the process to be aware of the potential implications of emancipation on mental health, and to provide support and resources to help the minor adjust to their new situation.
References
National Conference of State Legislatures. (2016). Emancipation of Minors. Retrieved from https://www.ncsl.org/research/human-services/emancipation-of-minors.aspx