Applied Psychology

Applied Psychology

Comparison of Tendency to Divorce, Sexual Satisfaction, Marital Disaffection, and Self-Differentiation in Divorce Applicant Couples Based on Demographic Characteristics

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Esmat Ghaedi 1
Changiz Rahimi Taghanki 2
1 Ph.D Student of Clinical Psychology, Faculty Of Education And Psychology, University Of Shiraz, Iran
2 Professor psychology, Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shiraz university, Shiraz, Iran
10.48308/apsy.2026.241158.1886
Abstract
Aim: This study examined differences in tendency toward divorce, sexual satisfaction, marital disaffection, and self-differentiation based on demographic characteristics among couples applying for divorce.

Method: This causal-comparative study included 426 individuals (213 couples) who attended the Divorce Reduction Office in Shiraz during 2021–2022. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using standardized measures of tendency toward divorce, sexual satisfaction, self-differentiation, and marital disaffection. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA and independent t-tests conducted in SPSS-26.

Results: Tendency toward divorce (p = 0.013) and marital disaffection (p = 0.007) were significantly higher among couples with longer marital duration. Sexual satisfaction was greater during the early years of marriage (p = 0.002). Better economic status was associated with higher sexual satisfaction (p < 0.01), and higher educational level was associated with increased sexual satisfaction (p < 0.001) and self-differentiation (p = 0.003). Men reported significantly higher self-differentiation and sexual satisfaction, whereas women reported greater marital disaffection. No significant gender difference was found in tendency toward divorce.

Conclusion: Demographic variables significantly influence marital functioning and relational outcomes among couples seeking divorce. These findings highlight the importance of considering socioeconomic and gender-related factors in marital counseling and intervention programs.
Keywords
Divorce
Marital Disaffection
Sexual Satisfaction
Differentiation of Self
Tendency to Divorce
Couples
Subjects
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