The emotional response following marital dissolution often mirrors the grieving process experienced after a significant loss. This process, conceptualized as a series of emotional phases, aims to provide a framework for understanding and navigating the complex feelings associated with the end of a marriage. These reactions are not necessarily linear or sequential; individuals may experience them in varying orders, intensities, and durations.
Recognizing and understanding the potential emotional landscape of separation can be beneficial. It can offer a sense of normalcy amidst turmoil, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide a roadmap for coping. Historically, this model, originally developed in the context of death and dying, has been adapted and applied to various forms of loss, including the ending of significant relationships. Its application allows for the destigmatization of emotional responses and encourages seeking support when needed.
