CCDG Psychologist Habelow: Collaborative is Great Option for Gray Divorce

By Psychologist Wendy F. Habelow

A gray divorce refers to couples who decide to part ways over the age of 50, often after a long-term marriage. When it comes to gray divorces, it is important to keep in mind that although the developmental needs of adult children are quite different than minor children, they often have strong uncomfortable and unhappy feelings about older parents’ divorces. It still represents the loss of a family, an adjustment for future family gatherings and celebrations and the discomfort of watching older parents possibly date and fall in love with someone who is not their other parent.

Older parents must be sensitive to their adult children’s needs and feelings, be mindful not to overshare personal relationship details with them just because they are adults, and work cooperatively with their partner to jointly participate in future family events collaboratively and peacefully.

Collaborative divorce can be a great option for couples going through a gray divorce because it can help maintain positive relationships by focusing on restructuring the family.