The Divorce Legacy: Marriage Challenges in Women with Experience of Parental Divorce

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Counseling and Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Hazrat-e Masoumeh University, Qom, Iran.

2 Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities, hazrat-e Masoumeh University, Qom, Iran

10.22098/jpc.2024.15074.1233

Abstract

Aim: This qualitative study investigates the challenges faced by women with a history of parental divorce in their marriages. It aims to uncover the emotional, psychological, and relational difficulties stemming from parental divorce and their impact on marital dynamics. Method: Utilizing conventional content analysis, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with sixteen women from Qom Province during winter and summer of 2024 year, who had experienced parental divorce and are in their first marriages. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection involved recording and transcribing interviews, followed by coding and thematic analysis to identify recurring themes. Findings: The findings indicated six main categories: 1. Unresolved Past Painful Emotions, 2. Marital hurdles of Being a Child of Divorce, 3. Persistent Psychological Insecurity, 4. Deficiency in Skills Due to the Absence of Successful Life Models, 5. The Enduring Echoes of Parental Divorce, and 6. Growth After Experiencing the Trauma of Parental Divorce. Conclusion: Parental divorce profoundly impacts individuals' emotional and psychological well-being, influencing various aspects of their marital lives. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges, emphasizing mental health support and life skills training. Future research should explore gender differences, partner perspectives, and cross-cultural variations to develop comprehensive strategies for improving the marital experiences of individuals with a history of parental divorce.

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