Demographic characteristics, attitudes and dependence in the adaptation to divorce

In this work we analyzed the existing relationships between adjustment to divorce (considered as a stress process) and different individual characteristics; demographic (time married and divorced, earning levels, married again); dependency levels (emotional and instrumental); attitudes and level of participation when deciding to divorce in a sample of divorced persons (N = 40). Results show that emotional and instrumental dependency, a low educational level and unfavorable attitudes towards divorce explain difficulties in adaptation. Adjustment level is explained by age: the older the person, the bigger the difficulties in adjustment are. This study has definite implications for intervention and prevention programs targeting divorced persons.