Why Are Women More Likely to Initiate Divorce Than Men?

 Posted on May 11, 2017 in Divorce

When breaking down the finances of a typical heterosexual marriage, women are more likely to struggle financially following a divorce than men. There have been gains in gender equality as compared to decades ago, but husbands on average still have greater income and resources than their wives. The division of marital property and support payments from their husbands may not be enough to offset their increased financial responsibilities as single home owners or parents.

Despite what they have to lose, studies consistently show that women are more likely to ask for a divorce than men. One common theory is that women are more sensitive to relationship issues than men. However, some research does not support this theory. A recent study found that: 

• Women initiate the divorce in 69 percent of case; but
• Men and women are equally likely to break up a relationship that is not a marriage. 

The disparity suggests that there are qualities unique to marriage that cause relationships to dissolve. Researchers have hypothesized that traditional gender roles are possibly the reason more women ask for divorce.

Power Structure

Research shows that couples who cohabitate but are not married are more likely to have equal roles in a relationship, while the power structure for married couples is more likely to favor the husband. Wives have traditionally been subservient to and financially dependent on their husbands, who expect them to:

• Put aside their own goals to care for the family;
• Complete household chores and preparation of meals; and
• Be the primary caregiver to their children.

Wives today often have their own careers, and husbands are more likely to help with housework. However, gender roles in marriage have been slow to change. Wives who believe there is an unequal division of power in their marriages are more likely to be dissatisfied.

Parenting Time

Looking at divorce from a man’s perspective, a husband may not want a divorce because of how it may affect his relationship with his children. During a divorce, the mother traditionally receives greater allocation of parental responsibilities. The father may be concerned that he will have less parenting time with his children and control over parental decision-making. Conversely, a mother wanting a divorce feels more assured that her children will continue living with her.

Getting a Divorce

Regardless of who initiates the divorce, you need an experienced lawyer to represent you during the process. A Kane County divorce attorney at Goostree Law Group can help you negotiate a favorable divorce settlement. Call 630-584-4800 to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

https://web.stanford.edu/~mrosenfe/Rosenfeld_gender_of_breakup.pdf