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With so many people in the United States professing to believe in God, Michigan residents may consider it odd that religion is often excluded from divorce discussions. But religion can have both positive and negative effects on divorcing individuals, according to scientists. Depending upon the way that divorce is viewed and how religion is used post-divorce to adjust to a new life are relevant topics of interest.
A study was recently conducted by scientists to determine how religion and divorce relate to one another. In particular, the idea of divorce being a desecration or sacred loss was studied. The study used 89 recently divorced individuals, and followed up with them after one year from the initial study. Data was collected regarding their individual views of divorce and religious coping mechanisms, and their emotional and mental wellbeing.
The results of the study indicated that individuals who viewed divorce in a negative way such as those who view divorce as punishment from God or something to be guilty about, had a harder time adjusting to life post-divorce. In contrast, those who view divorce from a more moderate standpoint and who practiced positive religious strategies such as prayer, religious support, and worship had less instances of depression one year later. Additionally, other non-religious positive coping strategies such as humor and planning were also considered.
While divorce may be a loss of the marriage, life can be positive and fresh after divorce when Michigan couples mix the right attitude with the right support. Having the right support system in place during and after divorce begins with having the right team to guide individuals through the process. When the right team is in place, the divorce can be handled smoothly and successfully, allowing individuals to focus more on their new life, rather than dwelling on their old one.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Does Religion Help Or Hurt Divorce Adjustment?,” Robert Hughes, Jr., Aug. 2, 2012