A Qualitative Analysis of the Decision to Remarry Using Gilligan's Ethic of Care

Abstract

The process of commitment to remarriage may be explained by Gilligan's Ethic af Care and Responsibility framework. Qualitative data from intensive interviews with 23 formerly divorced remarried females showed an advancement in level of care and responsibility. From the decision to marry the first time to the decision to remarry, they moved from an egocentric level of caring for self first, to caring for others first, toward the highest level of reciprocity in responsibility and caring for self and others. This cognitive developmental perspective on commitment to remarry adds a new dimension to the sociological approach to remarriage.