Divorce as a life transition: a phenomenological study of women's lived experiences in Turkey

Introduction Divorce is a multifaceted life transition involving interconnected relational, psychological, social, and institutional experiences. This study aimed to explore how divorced women retrospectively understand and make meaning of their experiences surrounding marriage, divorce decision-making, and life after divorce. Methods A qualitative design informed by an interpretive phenomenological orientation was employed. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 divorced women, and the data were analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. Results Six themes were identified: (1) marriage process and relationship dynamics, (2) problems and violence in marriage, (3) coping and divorce decision, (4) social environment, family, and societal attitudes, (5) legal process and institutional experiences, and (6) life after divorce. Participants' accounts revealed differing interpretations of family responsibilities, social support, legal challenges, and post-divorce adjustment, including experiences of both emotional distress and regained autonomy. Discussion Rather than indicating a uniform sequence of stages, participants' retrospective accounts highlight divorce as a multifaceted life transition shaped by personal circumstances and sociocultural contexts. The findings emphasize the need for integrated psychosocial and institutional support responsive to divorced women's diverse experiences.