Coping Strategies of Women with Post-Divorce Conditions

In Iranian culture, divorce is considered to be an undesirable phenomenon that brings with it a lot of consequences and serious challenges and concerns for people, especially women. In order to deal with the phenomenon of divorce and the subsequent stigma, divorced women often have to consider coping strategies. The aim of the present study is to clarify the coping strategies of women after divorce. The present qualitative study was conducted using thematic analysis through semi-structured interviews, with 21 divorced women living in the city of Baneh, Iran. Purposive sampling was used and the data collection process continued until data saturation was achieved. The analysis of qualitative data revealed two types of strategies which included adaptable and maladaptive strategies of coping with conditions after divorce. The results of the present study revealed that the use of coping strategies among divorced women is different depending on the personal ability, family and social support, and social capital at their disposal. Identifying strategies used by women to deal with conditions of divorce would give a more comprehensive understanding of their needs. Accordingly, empowering divorced women, teaching  them coping strategies, strengthening family support, and providing social opportunities are some measures that results in the enhancement of the coping strategies of divorced women in post-divorce situation.