THE PRIMARY PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES OF MARITAL DISSOLUTION

Abstract

The family, as a fundamental social institution forming the cornerstone of society, has retained its significance and is unlikely to diminish in importance in the foreseeable future. However, the evolving dynamics of human personality, gender relations, socio-economic structures, and moral frameworks have given rise to numerous contradictions within the family unit. The inability to resolve these conflicts often leads to family dissolution, resulting in various socio-psychological consequences. It is well established that such disruptions, which inflict profound emotional distress on family members, primarily affect children. The impact of familial conflicts and psychological distress varies depending on the child’s age and socio-economic background. Historically, in efforts to stabilize familial relations, extended family members, community elders, and respected figures within society played a crucial role in mediation. In contemporary society, advancements in science and technology, the specialization of professionals across various fields, the expansion of social assistance programs, and the prioritization of family, child, and gender-related policies in state social frameworks have collectively contributed to positive developments in this domain. Nevertheless, divorce rates continue to rise annually, coinciding with an increase in health complications among children, exacerbated by environmental pollution and other socio-psychological stressors. These stressors, in turn, manifest in conditions such as neurological disorders, emotional instability, and mental health issues. Persistent exposure to stress may result in depression, heightened anxiety, and other adverse psychological outcomes. To mitigate these effects, both theoretical and applied research initiatives are being undertaken to regulate these issues and facilitate the child’s reintegration into a stable life. A comprehensive examination of existing efforts and unresolved challenges in this domain will contribute to future advancements in addressing the complexities of family dissolution. The historical conceptualization of parental responsibilities, including child-rearing obligations, has been shaped by deeply rooted societal values, traditions, and familial role models. The interplay between social norms, cultural customs, and personal parental experiences informs the ethical and normative frameworks governing parental duties. Furthermore, beyond legal regulation, parental obligations in every society are also, to some extent, influenced by public opinion and societal expectations.