Abstract
M.Ed.
Divorce is one of the most traumatic experiences that families can encounter. Children suffer when parents divorce and much research has been done on the effects that divorce has on young children in terms of their social, socio-economic and psychological development.
As a result of this extensive research, parents are aware that, if they divorce when their children are young, it may have negative effects on their children’s development. Hence, some couples wait until they believe their children are mature enough to understand the situation and to deal with the consequences, thereby limiting any possible damage. These parents often wait for their children to complete their senior secondary education before moving forward with divorce proceedings. They believe that this is the right time to divorce.
This research study uses a Qualitative Research Paradigm to investigate the effects that waiting to divorce has on the young adult child and his or her relationships and future career opportunities. The theoretical framework for this study includes understanding Systems Theory, the family life cycle, the development of personality in the young adult and the nature and stages of divorce.
The research study shows that young adult children do experience hardship particular to their stage of development when their parents divorce. In particular, they find themselves caught between stages of their lives. They are on the cusp of two worlds – school and their future careers.
Interviews were used as a method of data collection. Three participants were selected to form part of the study and in-depth interviews were conducted to understand the experiences and perceptions of these individuals. The findings were analysed and recorded. The data was interpreted from which conclusions were drawn and recommendations made.