Sociological Analysis of Divorce

To get a deeper understanding of divorce, it merits for a sociological analysis following the perspectives of functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic Interactionism. With this, we can get a better view of the many social effects of divorce to individuals and to the society in general. Functionalism views divorce negatively and at a macro point of view. This is because most of the blame is on the social institutions and not the individuals in the marriage seeking to divorce. The main argument here is that these social institutions fail to provide enough advice and instruction to the individuals for the partner are bound to high social standards. It’s this kind of struggle for power and resources that has caused a revolutionary change in the social structure.

Divorce has shown some light having exposed gender inequality and has opened up the minds of women, the minor party to understand their roles and rights (Eichelsheim, et al. In an interactionist view, we examine the choices made by either party, the interaction between them, or the symbolic meaning of divorce and marriage. Here the micro view focuses on the individuals involved and not blaming the society at large. For instance, we consider how their individual’s choices are influenced by factors like observed behavior, or even how family and friends influence divorce. As well there is a conflict in women roles as housewives and them having other occupational obligations in the present world. Considering how these problems arise and how they cause divorce, it's certain that the divorce rate may increase considering the underlying issues remain.