Beyond Marital Dissolution: Role Transitions and Identity Reconstruction of Divorced Older Women
Shiau-Fang Chao, Yueh-Tzu Wang, Chien-Chou Hou, Ju-Ping Lin

TL;DR
This study explores how divorced older women in Taiwan and China rebuild their identities and social roles after divorce, facing stigma and gender expectations.
Contribution
The study introduces insights into identity reconstruction and role transitions of divorced older women through a gendered life course perspective.
Findings
Participants faced traditional gender roles and marital adversity, prioritizing family over personal wellbeing.
Post-divorce, women experienced identity disruption and economic vulnerability, leading to identity reconstruction.
Community involvement and social services helped affirm their new identities outside traditional family roles.
Abstract
Divorced women in Taiwanese and Chinese cultures face significant social stigma, yet research on their experiences remains limited. Applying the Gendered Life Course Perspective, this study examines how divorced older women’s marital transitions shape their identity reconstruction and how they establish new social roles beyond wifehood. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with 12 divorced older women from diverse backgrounds. Thematic analysis identified patterns in identity reconstruction and role transitions post-divorce. Divorced older women’s role transitions and identity reconstruction reveal distinctive patterns:1.Traditional roles and marital adversity: Participants endured unequal labor division, extensive caregiving, and significant conflicts, including infidelity and domestic violence. Many prioritized family stability over personal wellbeing, reflecting…
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Taxonomy
TopicsIntergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving · Family Dynamics and Relationships · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics
