{"id":252604,"date":"2026-03-17T11:52:16","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T11:52:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dominiclevent.com\/blog\/?p=252604"},"modified":"2026-03-17T14:35:19","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T14:35:19","slug":"2-core-values-that-can-predict-divorce-by-a-psychologist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dominiclevent.com\/blog\/2-core-values-that-can-predict-divorce-by-a-psychologist\/","title":{"rendered":"2 Core Values That Can Predict Divorce\u2014By A Psychologist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Getting divorced, although far more common than before, is still stigmatized. Here are two values that empower people to leave unhappy relationships despite the judgment.<\/p>\n

Thinking about divorce is a difficult moment in anyone\u2019s life. It\u2019s more than just a personal heartbreak\u2014it can reshape families, affect finances and carry deep cultural and social implications.<\/p>\n

A January 2025 study<\/u><\/a> published in Communications Psychology<\/em> explored attitudes towards divorce, as well as its likelihood, across individuals in 55 countries. Overall, it was found that certain values\u2014both personal and cultural\u2014play a key role in shaping whether people feel empowered to leave unhappy marriages or feel compelled to stay.<\/p>\n

The authors of the study suggest that these values are powerful predictors of divorce because they develop early in life and tend to remain stable over time. This means that, even from a young age, the values we hold can shape how we approach marriage and whether we\u2019re likely to even view divorce as an option.<\/p>\n

Here are the two core values that support individuals in their journey of seeking divorce, according to the study.<\/p>\n

1. Cultural Values<\/h2>\n

Divorce often challenges the way society traditionally defines relationships and family stability. Some cultures view it as a disruption to the social order, while others recognize it as a necessary path to individual fulfillment and healthier relationships.<\/p>\n

Cultural values also shape the way individuals perceive divorce. They establish the expectations for relationships and define whether leaving a marriage is seen as an act of self-determination or a failure to uphold social duties.<\/p>\n

Consequently, researchers found that cultures emphasizing individual autonomy had higher divorce rates, while those emphasizing social embeddedness had a lower likelihood of divorce.<\/p>\n

In cultures that prioritize autonomy, individuals are encouraged to express their individuality, pursue personal happiness and follow their unique aspirations. These cultures tend to view divorce as a justifiable and often necessary step toward self-fulfillment.<\/p>\n

In contrast, cultures that emphasize embeddedness view individuals as integral parts of a collective. These societies encourage individuals to maintain stability, uphold traditions and conform to societal expectations\u2014even if their personal happiness is compromised. Divorce is more stigmatized in these cultures, and individuals are less likely to seek separation, even in unsatisfactory marriages<\/u><\/a>.<\/p>\n

If you grew up in a culture that values social embeddedness, you might feel excessive pressure to make a marriage work, no matter the great personal costs. On the other hand, if your culture values individual autonomy, you may see divorce as a valid and sometimes necessary choice in a marriage that no longer serves your well-being.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe reason that the notion of divorce favors individuals\u2019 freedom over commitment. Divorce predominantly promotes individuals\u2019 goals, letting them a way out of unsatisfactory relationships, even at a potential cost to the social order,\u201d the researchers explain.<\/p>\n

2. Personal Values<\/h2>\n

While cultural values shape broader societal attitudes toward divorce, personal values can also dictate an individual\u2019s approach to marriage and separation.<\/p>\n

The researchers found that individuals who prioritize \u201cconservation values\u201d are less likely to consider divorce. These values emphasize stability and respect for norms and long-standing traditions, all of which discourage individuals from leaving their partners. These include:<\/p>\n