Researchers study the impact divorce has on quality of life
As divorce is becoming more common, the effects it can have on a person’s quality of life are becoming better understood. According to a recent study performed by the National Council of Family Relations, over half of all marriages end in divorce. That same study also found that there were 2 million divorces in 2009 across the United States.
The study also showed that the probability of a divorce increases as a marriage gets longer, as well as after a previous divorce. Only 20 percent of marriages fail within the first five years when both parties have not been previously married. This figure increases to 33 percent after 10 years. Statistics are far more pronounced for people on their third marriage. These types of marriages have a 73 percent divorce rate.
According to another study performed by Marie Claire magazine, the quality of life for a woman who has recently gone through a divorce drops by 45 percent. The study asserts that women take more damage during a divorce than their male counterparts, due to the challenges of managing a new life with less money, additional childcare responsibilities and the difficulty of returning to dating.
Yet another study performed by the Institute of Social and Behavioral Research at Iowa State University indicated that divorce might have long-term effects on a woman’s health. Physical illnesses were found in 37% more divorced women a decade after the divorce than in married women. In addition, lingering mental illnesses may occur immediately following the divorce. Iowa State researchers pointed to relatively meager job opportunities and social isolation as two of the primary reasons for long-term mental and physical illnesses.
Fortunately, many marriage experts believe that most women make major improvements only 10 weeks after a divorce, despite the immediate financial and emotional hardships. There is no doubt that divorce can be a very stressful experience. Careful planning and preparation are required to minimize the potential adverse effects of a divorce. Fortunately, people going through divorce do not have to go through the process alone. Experienced divorce attorneys are available to help.
Source: ABC News, “Women Take Biggest Hit in Divorce, Say Experts,” Susan Donaldson James, 2/4/2011
