Exploring the Socioeconomic and Emotional Effects of Divorce on Women in Savar: A Cross-Sectional Study

Authors

Keywords:

Divorce, Emotional Well-being, Women's lives, Marriage dissolution, psychological effects, Socioeconomic factors

Abstract

Background
Divorce is an increasingly visible phenomenon in both urban and rural parts of Bangladesh, yet its consequences especially on women remain understudied. In a society deeply rooted in patriarchy, divorced women often face not only emotional turmoil but also significant socioeconomic setbacks. Understanding these multidimensional impacts is essential to shaping supportive policy and community frameworks.

Objective
This study aimed to explore the socioeconomic and emotional consequences of divorce on women in the Savar region. It specifically focused on identifying the key challenges faced by divorced women in terms of employment, living arrangements, mental health, social stigma, and childcare responsibilities.

Method
A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data were collected from 384 divorced women in the Savar area using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Stratified purposive sampling was used to ensure diversity in age, education, and socioeconomic background. The data were processed using SPSS 27 and Microsoft Excel, with both descriptive and interpretive analysis applied.

Results
Findings revealed that a majority of respondents were young (20–29 years), had secondary-level education, and relied heavily on natal families or in-laws for post-divorce housing. Nearly half were employed, while a significant number remained housewives or engaged in low-paying jobs. Causes of divorce included family conflict, extramarital affairs, and lack of understanding. Emotional effects were profound, with over 85% reporting mental or social harassment. Children of divorced women were also significantly impacted, with reported difficulties in school performance, behavior, and legal documentation. Financial support primarily came from family (58.3%) and NGOs (16.7%).

Conclusion
Divorce imposes layered and long-lasting effects on women’s lives in Savar, affecting not only their financial independence but also their emotional stability and social standing. The study highlights the urgent need for integrated support systems including legal aid, mental health services, and economic empowerment initiatives targeted specifically at divorced women. Future research should further explore longitudinal outcomes and intervention strategies to mitigate post-divorce vulnerabilities.

Author Biographies

  • Sourov Ahmed, Sociology and Social Work, Gono Bishwabidyalay, Dhaka, Bangladesh

    Sourov Ahmed earned his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Social Work from Gono Bishwabidyalay in 2025. He completed his undergraduate research titled “Assessing the Socioeconomic and Infrastructural Impacts of Disasters on Char Communities at Jattrapur Union in Kurigram.” His research interests include environmental justice, social protection, public health, and agriculture. He has been an active dramatist with Jahangirnagar Theatre since 2022 and serves as the Divisional Joint Coordinator (Dhaka Division) at YouthNet Global since 2024. With four years of experience in photography, he integrates art, research, and theatre activism to promote social and environmental change

  • Shuvo Molla, Sociology and Social Work, Gono Bishwabidyalay, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

    Shuvo Molla is an emerging researcher currently pursuing his third-year Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Social Work at Gono Bishwabidyalay. His research interests include social protection, public health and agriculture, climate change, and environmental justice. He has been actively involved in data collection for agriculture and indigenous knowledge-based projects. Since 2024, Shuvo has been an active climate activist with YouthNet Global and serves as the Assistant Organizing Secretary of the Gono Bishwabidyalay Career Development Club. Passionate about research, creativity, and social engagement, he aspires to contribute to building a sustainable and equitable society through evidence-based initiatives.

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Published

2025-11-14

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): November 2025

Section

Original Article

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How to Cite

Sourov, A., & Shuvo, M. (2025). Exploring the Socioeconomic and Emotional Effects of Divorce on Women in Savar: A Cross-Sectional Study. Asian Journal of Arts and Social Sciences, 1(1), 1-7. https://ojs.academypg.org/ojs/index.php/AJASS/article/view/18