Before COVID-19 took over our everyday lives, the unemployment rate in the United States was under 4%. Over the last eight months, our economy has plummeted, and the current national unemployment rate hovers around 8%. While this unemployment rate is certainly an improvement over the numbers we saw in late Spring and early summer, the reality is that millions of people are still out of work. Much of that job loss has happened here in California. Job loss is also a leading contributing factor to divorce. Here, we want to discuss COVID-19, joblessness, and divorce.
Is Job Loss the Leading Cause of Divorce
According to an article in the American Sociological Review, Harvard researchers say that divorce is more likely to occur when husbands are not employed full-time. The research states that those without full-time jobs increase the odds of divorce by approximately 30%. Interestingly, the study also found that neither wives’ full-time employment nor their share of household labor are associated with divorce risk.
The Harvard study did a deep dive into the total effects of unemployment on a person and, subsequently, the marriage. Researchers say that when a person is unemployed, this can have significant impacts on their overall mental health. Feelings of depression and anxiety then consequently impact those closest to them, including their spouses.
We should point out that this study highlights a lack of consideration for more modern concepts of marriage, such as a husband who may be a stay-at-home dad. The data also does not include same-sex marriages, as this data set is relatively new and unavailable.
However, it should be no surprise that job loss and a lack of finances significantly strain a marriage. A significant percentage of all divorces find their origins in financial instability. This does not bode well in this country’s current economic situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As of this writing, the jobless rate still needs to be revised. Congress has not yet passed another coronavirus economic stimulus to help boost individuals or businesses, and the money from the previous relief bills passed in the Spring has all but run out. There have been many anecdotal reports of divorce rates rising throughout the country, beginning when the pandemic started. Undoubtedly, these numbers will continue to increase as the country’s economic situation worsens.
Contact Us For a Free Consultation Today
If you are considering divorce, you should speak to an attorney for a free review of your situation as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, our skilled and experienced divorce lawyers understand that divorce is difficult for every person involved. We aim to help our clients get through this and ensure they are treated fairly throughout the process. When you need a Simi Valley divorce lawyer, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 818-707-0203.
