Divorce Outcome Research Issues and Perspectives

TIfEeffects of divorce on adults are summarized and analyzed in terms of (a) practical problems. (b) the consequences for social life and intimate relationships, and (c) health and safety. The effects of parental divorce On children are reviewed in terms of (a) cognitive performance and school success, (b) personality, (c) interpersonal relationships, (d) health, and (e) juvenile delinquency. Due to methodological limitations, little can be concluded concerning the long-term effects of divorce. These limitations are discussed and an alternative research design is proposed. It appears that marital discord more than marital structure is an important determinant Of the effects with which we are concerned