Divorce: Behind The Numbers

by Calyn Ehid

Research done by National Center for Health Statistics shows that almost 50% of the marriages in the US end in divorce where women initiate 80% of those divorces. These divorce statistics show that more women than men are not satisfied with their marriage, to the point that they decide to end them. Getting divorced is not an easy task, and those who have experienced it in most cases have a misguided understanding of it. There are several misconceptions of divorce and the way each party reacts to them.

3 Common Misconceptions About Divorce

1. The Divorce Process Favors Women

In the past, women would most often receive full custody of the child, but nowadays the situation is different. Courts prefer 50/50 custody arrangement since it assumes that a frequent contact between the child and both parents is essential. During property division, courts look at their number but not gender. Many parties are comfortable with this; bringing up a child alone is not a simple task.

2. Divorce Is Always a Battle

Many people begin the process of divorce thinking that it will be a courtroom battle. There are, however, divorces that are argumentative, but many others are done through mediation, and when that happens both parties are satisfied and happy that everything was not contentious.

3. It is Easy to Avoid Emotions In a Divorce

Many divorcing couples think that it is possible to undergo the process of divorce without emotional aspect, but this is not the case. During this process, emotions come rolling down especially in a courtroom and therefore is essential for the divorcing couple to seek therapist’s help.

Pros vs. Cons of Divorce

Pros of Divorce

• If there is domestic violence, then divorce is the only way that the victim of the abuse can live happily.
• In the case where one part of the couple is unfaithful, then it’s time for divorce. Divorcing will help each person move on from the situation and grow from it.
• Divorce can free someone from an emotional unsuitability situation and free them to build a better life on their own or through the help of another person.

Cons of Divorce

• There is a possibility that one will suffer financially from the divorce due to a decrease in income.
• The relationship with the spouse, friends, and family is likely to change such that if one person in the marriage is close to their spouse’s family, then that is not expected anymore.
• Emotional pain caused by divorce can take longer to heal regardless of the reason that led to divorce.

There are pros and cons of a divorce, and therefore it is crucial for both parties to go through them before initiating the process of divorce. They should try to solve their marital problems amicably to avoid this painful experience.

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