Psychological Consequences of Divorce: A Theoretical Analysis Through the Lens of Cognitive-Behavioral and Attachment Theories

Abstract

Divorce is a deeply transforming life experience that carries severe psychological implications. Drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral Theory (CBT) and Attachment Theory, this research investigates the relationship of distorted thinking, emotional insecurity, and relationship styles of divorced women and men. With the aid of a theoretical framework, this analysis integrates results of the available empirical research to determine similar outcomes like depression, anxiety, and victimized self-esteem. It also describes how maladaptive cognitive processes catastrophizing and personalizing and insecure attachment patterns anxious and avoidant attachment relationships exacerbate post-divorce distress. Last but not least, this paper discusses the clinical efficacy of integrative therapy, combining CBT methods (e.g., cognitive restructuring) with attachment-based treatment methods (e.g., emotionally focused therapy), in enabling emotional healing and relational recovery. Implications for culturally responsive practice and future research are discussed. This research concludes that a double-framework conceptualization provides a strong conceptualization of divorce psychological consequences and makes resilient adaptation possible through specificity-matched treatment interventions.