Separation offers poor couples an alternative to divorce

Couples on lower incomes are more likely to undergo a long-term separation than more affluent couples, according to a recent study from America.

Researchers at Ohio State University looked at data involving over 7,000 people across the US, and found around 80% of those who separated went on to get divorced within three years. A further 5% attempted a reconciliation, but the remaining 15% were still separated after ten years. These couples tended to come from ethnic or racial minorities, with lower levels of education, lower family income and young children.

“In every measure we had, including family background, income and education, those who remain separated are more disadvantaged than those who end up divorcing,” said Zhenchao Qian, professor of sociology at Ohio State.

“Those with young children may find it difficult to support themselves and their children if they divorce. Divorce may not protect them because their spouse may be unwilling or unable to provide financial support.”