Antecedents and Consequents of Divorce for Career Professional Women in Punjab

Abstract

Over the past few decades, women's participation in the workforce has been on the rise globally, including in Pakistan. Coinciding with this trend, the rates of marital dissolution have also increased. The dissolution of marriage has proven to be a distressing experience for professional women and their families, often leaving them traumatized and depressed. While there is extensive empirical research available on the relationship between work and family in developed countries, very little attention has been given to the experiences of women in Pakistan. This study addresses this gap by examining the factors that can impact the marital life of professional women in Punjab, Pakistan. The methodology of study was qualitative. The research utilized in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with professional women to explore the factors contributing to divorce. Thematic content analysis was applied to gain factual insights into the underlying causes of marital separation among women in professional occupations. and the subsequent effects of dissolved marriages. These insights are valuable for professional women themselves, individuals within their immediate social circles, and policymakers, as they seek to enhance the marital experiences of professional Pakistani women and their family members.