Meta-Analysis of Studies on the Attitude towards Divorce (1382-1384)

Attitude towards divorce may reflect the cultural and social conditions of society. A positive attitude towards divorce can have a significant effect on the quality of marital life and the probability of divorce in couple's life. The main purpose of this study is to review the studies on attitude towards divorce to categorize the factors influencing this attitude. The present study uses a qualitative meta-analysis method. For this purpose, all theses, scientific papers and research projects conducted from 1382 (2003) to 1394 (2015) were reviewed. The findings indicate that high levels of education, using internet and having satellite, higher social class, social and cultural differences of couples, conflict in the family, diminishing male economic role and small family size, are among the factors affecting the positive attitude towards divorce. Adherence to religion, traditionalism, marital satisfaction, lack of experience of divorce in the family, and social capital are effective in creating a negative attitude towards divorce. The positive attitude toward divorce shows a relatively increasing trend. This growing attitude is due to individualism and liberalism, the reduction of institutional controls, post materialistic values, modern lifestyles, the entry of women into the labor market, and the imbalance in the cost-benefit of marriage. It does not seem that the rising rate of divorce suggests more resolute determination to make marriage a fruitful and satisfying relationship.