Young adults’ experiences of parental divorce or separation during their adolescence: An occupational perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this article we present a narrative exploration of adolescent and young adult occupation surrounding a parental divorce or separation. Adolescence is a time of great change and exploration in daily life. The addition of a parental divorce can make this period of understanding one's desires, responsibilities, and lifelong occupational preferences less stable. Parental divorce changes the family structure, routines and habits, as well as the relationships and responsibilities of the teens and young adults within their family. This study included six participants who had experienced a parental divorce between the ages of 10 and 20. Major themes that emerged include coping through the use of occupation, changing roles and responsibilities following divorce, and the support available to and from the participants. While these concepts fit with the current literature regarding parental divorce, the use of an occupational lens allowed for a deeper understanding of meaningful engagement in life surrounding parental divorce and separation, and how adolescents’ daily lives are affected by the associated transitions.