Parental Dissolution and the Transmission of Relational Instability for Adult Children of Divorce

Abstract

This paper explores the ways in which divorce has an effect on adult children of divorce and their perception towards intimate relationships. Current research around the topic suggests that individuals raised in divorced families tend to develop less positive attitudes towards marriage, and more positive attitudes towards divorce. This concept stems from the types of experiences gained through an individual’s family-of-origin, this creates a clear indication surrounding the attitudes a child of divorce will carry through to their intimate relationships. I will discuss a common source of tension around ‘feeling caught’ between parents and the impact it has on communication and topic avoidance. The topic centers around the concept of relational uncertainty and its association to relational turbulence and reactivity. The portrayal of parental relationships influences the transmission of marital instability.