Seeking Clarity and Confidence in the Divorce Decision-Making Process |
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| Authors: | Steven M. Harris Sarah A. Crabtree Natasha K. Bell Sarah M. Allen Kelly M. Roberts |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, USA;2. Department of Health and Human Development, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA;3. Department of Educational Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, USA |
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| Abstract: | ![]()
There is a well-established literature dedicated to why couples divorce, transitions associated with divorce, and the impact of divorce on families. However, little is known about the divorce decision-making process. We conducted in-depth interviews with individuals who have recently considered divorce (n = 30) and asked specifically about the roles of 2 concepts in their decision-making process: clarity and confidence. Three major themes emerged from the data: (a) Clarity about a decision to divorce or stay married is desired, it fluctuates, and takes time to find; (b) pivotal moments can bring clarity; and (c) confidence (in the final decision) is desired. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed. |
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| Keywords: | Clarity confidence decision making divorce |
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