Midlife Separation and Divorce: What Women Have to Say About Why They Leave

Over the past few decades, women have been leaving marriages in increasing numbers. Although there has been a significant amount of research on the negative effects of separation and divorce, particularly in regard to children, there has been little exploration in to the reasons why women leave. Divorce continues to be an unpopular subject in a society that privileges the institution of marriage and couples. This book explores women's real lived experiences of separation and divorce, how they navigate through the process, and how they respond to societal pressures and expectations. By utilizing feminist, developmental, and analytical frameworks, the author highlights the growth and healing process as it occurs for women at midlife, shedding light on some of the bigger questions and issues related to separation and divorce, and situating it within the larger social, cultural and political context. This book is particularly useful for professionals working with and supporting midlife women as well as for any woman who is seeking understanding and reassurance during this very important transition in her life.