Identifying Factors Related to Divorce in Iranian Couples: A Case Study in Yazd, Iran

Abstract

Background: Divorce is one of the most damaging social issues. Since the divorce rates are increasing rapidly, the current study evaluated the effects of factors leading to divorce.  Methods: In this qualitative study, by using two-stage sampling method (purposive and snowball) 4 couples on the verge of divorce visiting consulting center and 8 experts with experience in the field of family and divorce in Yazd city were selected. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The contents of the interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a content analysis method. Results: The experts who participated in this study included several marriage and divorce registrars, lawyers, and family counselors with over 10 years of experience in the field of family and divorce. The mean age of women on the verge of divorce was 33 ± 8.51 years and for men 37.2 ± 6.13 years. Fifty percent of the couples had a bachelor's degree and 62.5% of them were self-employed. Most of them had a marriage period of 5-10 years. A total of 23 codes were extracted from the interviews. The codes were organized into four main themes. Major topics included lack of preparation for marriage, psychological factors, unfavorable marital relationships, and social factors. Conclusion: The interference of families, extramarital relationships, early marriage and the lack of communication skills and media literacy are the most influential factors of divorce.