Separated: The Growing in Going — An Examination of Enduring Resilience Outcomes of Adults Who Experienced Childhood Divorce

Publication Date

Spring 4-29-2025

Document Type

Student Project

First Advisor

Koons-Beauchamp, Deborah

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Department

School of Family and Consumer Sciences

Abstract

This capstone project investigates the long-term resilience outcomes of adults who experienced parental divorce during childhood. Grounded in qualitative methodology, the study draws on in-depth, semi-structured interviews to explore how individuals navigate emotional development, stress management, and interpersonal relationships across diverse parental structures. Participants shared deeply personal narratives, revealing how social support, self-reflection, and adaptive coping strategies contributed to their resilience. Through thematic analysis, the research uncovers distinct patterns of resilience-building influenced by varying post-divorce family dynamics. Delivered as a four-episode podcast, the project aims to increase public understanding of the nuanced impacts of childhood divorce while offering validation and insight to those with similar life experiences. The findings emphasize the capacity for growth through adversity and suggest avenues for future research, including targeted resilience interventions for children of divorce to enhance long-term well-being.

ROLcapstone.pdf (140 kB)

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