When it comes to divorce, women are more likely to initiate divorce proceedings than men. According to various studies, approximately 70% of divorces are initiated by women. This may seem counterintuitive, especially in societies where men have historically been the decision-makers.
So, why is this the case? Let's delve into some of the key factors that contribute to this gender gap in divorce initiation.
Unmet Emotional Needs
Women often report feeling emotionally unsupported in their marriages, citing a lack of meaningful communication, emotional intimacy, and shared responsibilities. When these emotional needs are not met, women may feel that divorce is the only option to find the emotional fulfilment they crave.
The Superwoman Syndrome
Women are often expected to be everything at once: a loving spouse, a devoted mother, a successful career woman, and an efficient homemaker. This unrealistic expectation can create immense pressure, leading to dissatisfaction and the feeling that they'd be better off navigating life independently.
The Stoic Man Dilemma
On the flip side, men are often conditioned to be stoic, to suppress their emotions, and to "tough it out" even when they're unhappy. This societal expectation can make it difficult for men to acknowledge their emotional needs, let alone act on them by initiating divorce.
Emotional Workload
As a result often shoulder the the emotional labour in relationships and family dynamics. Emotional labour encompasses the mental and emotional effort required to maintain a household and relationship, from planning family events to managing the emotional well-being of family members and the social pressures of extended family and friends. This workload often falls disproportionately on women, which in previous generations when women didn’t work was manageable but today it leads to emotional exhaustion and, eventually, the desire for a way out.
The Changing Tide
As societal norms shift and women gain more financial and social independence, the need to stay in an unsatisfying marriage decreases. Women today have more resources and support systems, such as career opportunities and social networks, that empower them to leave unhappy marriages.
Men's Fear of Financial and Social Loss
Men often hesitate to initiate divorce due to fears of financial loss or reduced access to their children. The social stigma associated with being a "divorced man" can also be a deterrent, making them more likely to stay in an unhappy marriage.
The Parenting Factor
For women who are mothers, the well-being of their children is often a significant consideration. The belief that a two-parent household is always better for children is increasingly being challenged. It is now proven that exposing children to a dysfunctional marriage is more harmful in the long run than a well-handled divorce.
Men's Concerns About Fatherhood Post-Divorce
Men, too, worry about the impact of divorce on their children. However, societal norms often discourage men from expressing these concerns, leading them to stay in marriages for the sake of the children, even when the marital relationship is clearly broken.
The Quest for Authenticity
In an era where personal growth and self-fulfilment are highly valued, women are becoming less willing to sacrifice their own happiness for the sake of maintaining a marriage. The quest for an authentic life, where one's needs and desires are acknowledged and pursued, often serves as the catalyst for initiating divorce.
Men's Struggle with Authenticity
Men also yearn for authentic lives but may find it harder to take the first step due to societal pressures and self-imposed barriers. The fear of judgment or the unknown can make them hesitant to seek a more fulfilling life outside of marriage.
The reasons why more women instigate divorce than men are complex and multifaceted, influenced by emotional, societal, and personal factors. As we continue to challenge traditional gender roles and societal norms, it's essential to address the underlying issues that lead to this gender gap in divorce initiation. Only then can we hope to build relationships that are fulfilling and equitable for both parties?
If you're contemplating divorce or looking for ways to improve your relationship, know that you're not alone. Resources like relationship coaching, therapy, and supportive communities are available to help you make the best decision for your emotional well-being.
For men, it's crucial to break free from the societal norms that discourage emotional openness and seek the help needed to address your concerns. For women, it's about continuing to challenge the status quo and seek the emotional and practical support required for a fulfilling life. In the end, the goal is not just to understand why divorce happens but to create environments and relationships where both men and women can express their needs, desires, and concerns openly, leading to more fulfilling and lasting unions for all.
