Impacts of traumatic lifetime event on the likelihood of divorce

Abstract

The possible pathway in which traumatic life events influence the likelihood of marriage dissolution has not been fully explored. In this study a case study of various countries were chosen to maximize the diversity. We examined the effects of various traumatic life events on the likelihood of divorce, while controlling demographic and psychological factors. We employed a mixed probit model on data collected from various countries, such as Turkey, Thailand during the period of 2015–2016. The considered variables in this study were divided into mental health, traumatic life events, and demographic characteristics along with other characteristics. Our results showed that factors such as traumatic life events, e.g., being cheated on, being emotionally or sexually abused, or being disabled, and having divorced parents are positively associated with a higher likelihood of divorce. On the other hand, factors such as better subjective life conditions, older age, and previous divorce are negatively associated with the likelihood of divorce. The results also revealed some interaction effects between different factors. The results emphasize the importance of supporting those who have undergone traumatic life events, by helping them not only with the related traumas, but also preparing them for having a successful marriage. The impacts are expected to be due to shattered assumption theory. This is one of the earliest studies to consider the impact of traumatic life events on the likelihood of divorce.