Effects of Divorce on Women vs Men (And How They Handle It) - Infographic

Divorce is not an easy endeavor for any of the involved parties. It is common for individuals to go through their own unique healing process while influenced by certain factors including personality type and gender. While personality plays a big role in how an individual will react to the divorce process, gender can influence emotional healing, financial obligations and social interactions when adjusting to this new life.

Emotionally, it is common for females to adapt to divorce faster than males. To this end, women are twice as likely to initiate contact with a divorce lawyer and file. Women also tend to be more in tune with the marriage and are more aware when a downward spiral is taking place. Therefore, they are the first to take action. Men, on the other hand, often lose their sense of self and may need to go through a process of finding their identity again as the separation could come as a shock to them. Men tend to rely more heavily on social support from friends and family, while women have a higher sense of liberation and independence after a divorce. It is very likely that both women and men will experience a chaotic mix of emotions including fear, grief, anxiety, depression, guilt, anger and relief.

For both men and women, it may be difficult to maintain a lifestyle similar to their past in a single-salary household. The high costs associated with divorce can often cause drastic changes to a divorcee’s lifestyle. Women are more likely to be severely affected financially after divorce. 73% of divorced women are reported to lower their standard of living on average after a divorce, while men are reported to see a 42% increase in their standard of living on average post-divorce.

No matter the personality type, there are some key social nuances between women and men. Single mothers tend to receive more empathy and social support than single fathers, as fathers often experience loss in parental involvement. While sleep quality and overall health often improve in women post-divorce, men are likely to fall into old, unhealthy habits. Men are also known to re-marry quicker and more often if there is not much social support from friends.

Both men and women go through periods of denial, shock, anger, bargaining, depression and letting go before they accept the situation for what it is. There is no time frame considered appropriate for overcoming a failed marriage. There is no proof of whether men or women are more harshly affected by a divorce. Both parties handle the situation based upon the unique factors involved. If you or a loved one could benefit from experienced divorce attorneys, divorce mediation lawyers or child support attorneys in North or Central New Jersey, call 973-993-9960 to schedule an initial consultation.