For generations, there has been a social stigma attached to divorce.  In the past, divorce was met with disapproval by many, but in recent years and with the advent of no-fault divorce systems, that stigma has lessened somewhat in intensity.  However, this ever-evolving phenomenon of divorce is continually being studied by academics and family law experts.  Recently, a study was completed that looked at the divorce rates of couples who had witnessed this divorce process as it was undertaken by people close to them.  The results were extremely surprising to many in the field.

Specifically, researchers at Harvard, Brown and the University of California conducted a study that tracked the divorces of people around the country and then followed the divorce rate of people who were considered close friends or even relatives.  Over the years, it was discovered that when friends of a couple pursue a divorce, it can increase the divorce rate of those in that social circle by as much as 75 percent.

The researchers did not offer a specific reason for this surprising discovery, but several theories have been put forward.  These theories include the possibility that when someone witnesses a divorce for the first time, they may become somewhat desensitized to it to the point where divorce may not seem like an unrealistic step if marital problems ever arise.  Others have stated that witnessing a divorce can lead to sides being drawn between the parties to a divorce.

San Diego Divorce Attorneys

Clearly, people who watch a familiar couple complete a divorce have no independent reason to think that their marriage is suddenly in trouble.  However, when spouses contemplate a divorce for their own reasons, it should prompt anyone in this position to take steps to protect their legal rights and their financial interests as much as possible.

If you are facing the prospect of a divorce, you need to seek the help of experienced San Diego divorce attorneys who have helped many clients move through this difficult process and into the next phase of their lives.  Contact the law office of James D. Scott today to schedule an initial consultation.