Comparison of Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Emotional Loneliness and Social Anxiety in Divorced and Married Women

Abstract

Divorced and married women may experience emotional and social problems depending on their marital status, and both groups may face various difficulties as they have different life experiences. In this context, the aim of this research is to compare the depression, anxiety, stress, emotional loneliness and social anxiety levels of divorced and married women. The causal comparative model was used throughout the current study. Research sample consisted of a total of 1000 women, 500 divorced women and 500 married women, aged 18 and above who have experienced at least one divorce experience living in Turkey and the KKTC. Data collection was obtained using various tools including Socio-demographic Information Form, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASÖ-21), Adult Social and Emotional Loneliness Scale (SELSA-S), Liebowii Social Anxiety Scale, as well as the Informed Consent Form. It was found that the mean score of anxiety, depression, stress, emotional loneliness and social anxiety levels of married women was lower than the mean score of divorced women. In this context, it is recommended to identify divorced women and to provide preventive education and psychological assistance programs for the negative consequences of divorce, as well as group or individual psychological counseling.