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Why COVID-19 is Causing a Spike in Divorce Rates

An official from the Chinese city of Xi’an, according to the Global Times, reported a significant spike in divorce applications, according to an article in The List. It is thought that this is likely due to couples being forced to shelter-in-place for an extended period of time in the Chinese city of Xi’an, where COVID-19 is alleged to have first started.

Spikes in divorce have historically increased following natural disasters as opposed to man-made catastrophes. Following Hurricane Andrew divorces in  Dade County rose by 30%. There are some interesting speculations on why this disparity occurs.

The New York Post reported in September that U.S. divorce rates were skyrocketing due to the pandemic. According to the article, the combination of stress, unemployment, financial strain, death of loved ones, illness, and homeschooling during COVID-19 were major factors. It was also found that newlyweds were hit the hardest.

The  National Law Review in an article published on October 16, 2020, also reported a significant uptick in divorces. By April there was a 34% increase in divorces. There was also a 9% increase in outreach to the National Domestic Violence Hotline compared to  a year ago.

Experts believe that this is in accord with the collective disaster response curve, which describes the collective response to situations like COVID 19. After the initial “ we’ll get through this together” stage, energy ebbs, leading to disillusionment and depression.

The Business Insider writer Valerie Tocci, predicted that divorce will spike after the pandemic, citing the Xian, China experience that saw a spike in filings after the lockdown.

Psychology Today weighed in an October 13, 2020 article, citing one law firm that reported a 70% increase in phone traffic compared to the prior year. The author speculated that unhappy couples who could otherwise find sufficient distractions to remain stable were not able to do so during the lockdown. In addition, couples responding to external stressors resulting from COVID-19 we’re unable to engage in any adaptive process to deal with their struggles. Support systems were no longer available.

A Fox News report, citing the 34% spike in divorce rates, speculated that: The combination of stress, unemployment, financial strain, death of loved ones, illness, homeschooling children, mental illnesses, and more has put a significant strain on relationships.

Fox also reported that 31 percent of the couples admitted lockdown has caused irreparable damage to their relationships.

There can be no questions that marriages are one of the many casualties of the pandemic. Sadly, newer marriages are taking a big hit. If you’re struggling in your relationship, we can help.

The Brodie Friedman legal team provides clients with exceptional advice and personalized attention, by making your case our immediate priority. If you’re in need of excellent legal representation our team is here to help you.

With over 30 years of combined experience, Jason Brodie Esq. and Joshua Friedman Esq. will guide you toward realistic goals and provide committed advocacy toward achieving them. They are known throughout South Florida for dedicated client service, tenacity, and success in complex divorce litigation involving property division, child custody, and spousal support. 

To get a better understanding of the qualities our reputation is built on, contact our office in Boca Raton to schedule your initial phone consultation (561) 392-5100