The impact of divorce on mental health is a complex and multifaceted subject, with a growing body of research aiming to dissect the nuances of this relationship – based on gender.
A notable contribution to this field is the work of Bruce and Kim, as documented in their study (see link below). Their research delves into the differences in the effects of depression from divorce between men and women, shedding light on the intricate interplay between marital disruption and mental health outcomes.
Bruce and Kim sought to examine the relationship between marital disruption and major depressive episodes, focusing on the nuanced differences that may exist between men and women in this context.
Their research drew from longitudinal, community-based data from the New Haven Epidemiologic Catchment Area program, with a participant age range of 18-60 years.
The study revealed a noteworthy association between marital disruption and higher prevalence rates of major depression in both men and women. However, a crucial gender disparity emerged—while both genders experienced elevated rates of major depression after marital disruption, only men exhibited a greater risk of a first-onset major depression. The observed differences between men and women in rates of major depression were specifically notable among married subjects.
Bruce and Kim’s findings provide valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of the relationship between marital disruption and major depressive episodes, emphasizing gender-specific variations.
The study highlights that, while divorce is associated with increased rates of major depression for both men and women, the risk of experiencing a first-onset major depression is elevated for men exclusively. These results contribute to the growing body of evidence indicating that differences in rates of depression between men and women are influenced by marital status.
The implications of this research extend beyond the academic realm, prompting a re-evaluation of how divorce professionals such as judges, lawyers and mediators understand and address the mental health repercussions of divorce. Recognizing and acknowledging these gender-specific differences is crucial when surveying interventions and support systems. As we strive to create more inclusive and effective mental health initiatives, studies like Bruce and Kim’s underscore the importance of considering the diverse ways in which individuals, based on their gender and marital status, may navigate the challenges posed by divorce. This research serves as a call to action, urging further exploration into the intricacies of gender and mental health within the context of family breakdown.
STUDY LINK: https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/ajp.149.7.914?journalCode=ajp
This article was published in LexisNexis’ LAW360 at: https://www.law360.ca/ca/family/articles/2331220/the-different-effect-of-divorce-on-men-and-women
Steve Benmor, B.Sc., LL.B., LL.M. (Family Law), C.S., Cert.F.Med., C.Arb., FDRP PC, is the founder and principal lawyer of Benmor Family Law Group, a boutique matrimonial law firm in downtown Toronto. He is a Certified Specialist in Family Law, a Certified Specialist in Parenting Coordination and was admitted as a Fellow to the prestigious International Academy of Family Lawyers. Steve is regularly retained as a Divorce Mediator/Arbitrator and Parenting Coordinator. Steve uses his 30 years of in-depth knowledge of family law, court-room experience and expert problem-solving skills in Divorce Mediation/Arbitration to help spouses reach fair, fast and cooperative divorce settlements without the financial losses, emotional costs and lengthy delays from divorce court.
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