Common Themes in the Divorce Transition Experience of Midlife Women

This qualitative study report from a larger triangulated study focused on the experiences of midlife women in a divorce transition. Interviews were conducted with 24 midlife women drawn from divorce support groups and court records in northeastern Indiana who self-classified themselves into decider status groups: initiator, non-initiator, and mutual decider. Interpretive content analysis involving data reduction and pattern coding was used for data interpretation. Common themes were new roles, depression, coping, promoting better health, and new relationships. Understanding the divorce transition experience of midlife women enhances the provision of individualized care by nurses and health care professionals. Further study is indicated to develop and test interventions that promote the achievement of a healthy divorce transition.