Fundamental Principles Identified by a Psychologist, Which May Foreshadow Marital Disintegration
Navigating the decision to finally call it quits in a marriage isn't an easy feat. It's more than just a personal heartache; this split can rearrange families, affect finances, and carry deep cultural and social implications.
Recently, a study published in Communications Psychology shed some light on attitudes towards divorce across individuals in 55 countries. The findings highlighted the powerful role that personal and cultural values play in shaping whether individuals feel empowered to get out of stuck marriages or feel compelled to stay.
The researchers pointed out that these values, which we form early in life and tend to keep steady over time, significantly influence our approach to marriage and divorce. Let's dive into the two vital values identified by the study.
1. Cultural Values
Divorce can challenge the traditional way society perceives relationships and family stability. Some cultures view it as a disruption to the social order, while others recognize it as a necessary path to personal growth and healthier relationships.
Our cultural background shapes our view of divorce, defining expectations for relationships and portraying leaving a marriage as an act of self-determination or a sign of failing to meet social duties.
The study revealed that cultures emphasizing individual autonomy had higher divorce rates, while cultures emphasizing social embeddedness had a lower likelihood of splitting. In societies that prioritize autonomy, individuals are encouraged to pursue their dreams, happiness, and express individuality, viewing divorce as a valid and sometimes necessary means to self-fulfillment.
In contrast, cultures that value embeddedness see individuals as integral parts of a collective. Emphasizing stability and tradition, these societies often discourage divorce by enforcing societal expectations. However, it's important to note that one's cultural background doesn't dictate their future decisions, but it plays a significant role in shaping them.
2. Personal Values
Personal values can also dictate our approach to marriage and divorce. Researchers found that individuals who prioritize "conservation values" are less likely to view divorce as an option. These values emphasize stability, tradition, norms, and a respect for established customs. On the other hand, those who champion changeability are more inclined to filing for divorce when their relationship no longer aligns with their personal aspirations.
Some personal values that increase the likelihood of divorce include:
- Self-direction
- Openness to change
- Stimulation
- Hedonism
Children may also play a significant role. Research shows that families that prioritize their children’s well-being and happiness are more likely to stay committed to each other, even in difficult times. Conversely, families that focus on individual needs may struggle to navigate hardships together.
At the end of the day, love is important, but shared values often determine whether a marriage will truly stand the test of time. Start by understanding your own values and those of your partner, and determine whether they align or clash. Take the science-backed Relationship Satisfaction Scale to learn where you stand.
- In societies where cultural values prioritize individual autonomy, divorce rates tend to be higher, as these societies encourage self-direction, openness to change, and the pursuit of personal happiness.
- Personal values such as self-direction, openness to change, stimulation, and hedonism are more likely to lead individuals to consider divorce, especially if their relationship no longer aligns with their personal aspirations.
- Cultures that value traditional norms and customs, known as conservation values, are less inclined to view divorce as an option, as these societies emphasize stability, tradition, and respect for established customs.