Divorce has become more acceptable in society and that has led to more women getting divorced, according to a new study by Bowling Green State University’s National Center for Marriage and Family Research.
The study reported that 15 percent of women are divorced or separated in the U.S. compared to only one percent or less in 1920. The researchers said that the increase in divorced women is due to a change in cultural attitudes toward divorce, with divorce and single life becoming more acceptable.
In addition to more women getting divorced in the U.S., women are less likely to get remarried after their divorce than they were in the past, leading to more divorced and separated women living in the country.
Women are also more likely to file for divorce, with previous reports showing that two-thirds of divorces are filed by women. This shows that more women feel comfortable with the thought of divorce due to society being more accepting of divorce as well as having the financial independence to be single again.
In the past, many women may have felt that they couldn’t leave their marriage because they could not afford to live on their own and they may not have had any career opportunities. Now, more women are having their own successful careers and many married women are earning more money than their husbands.
Women considering divorce should think about the impact leaving their marriage would have on their finances and entire lifestyle. Individuals getting divorced will need to negotiate a divorce settlement, which includes dividing marital assets and property. Dividing these assets can signficantly impact a person’s finances and budget after the divorce is finalized so it is important to know how your financial goals and security may be affected.
Individuals thinking about filing for divorce should consult a divorce attorney to understand the ways divorce will impact and change their current lifestyle. In addition, individuals can discuss what steps to take to protect their financial goals and future.