The appropriate title for a divorced woman is a matter of personal preference. “Ms.” is generally considered a neutral title, applicable regardless of marital status. “Mrs.,” traditionally indicating a married woman, may be retained by a divorced woman if she so chooses, often reflecting a continued identification with her married name or past. The decision hinges on individual comfort and circumstance.
Selecting a title holds social and personal significance. Historically, women’s titles were inextricably linked to their marital status. The adoption of “Ms.” provided a way to circumvent this, offering a title that does not disclose marital history. Employing “Ms.” can empower individuals to define themselves outside of traditional marital roles. Retaining “Mrs.,” conversely, might be a preferred option for maintaining continuity or familial connections.
