GENDER DIFFERENCES IN COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL STEPS TOWARD DIVORCE

This study investigated the differences in cognitive and behavioral st eps in the divorce process for men and women. Two studies of 589 clini cal couples were analyzed comparing the responses of men and women on the 14 items of the Marital Status Inventory (MSI). Women were found t o make specific plans about divorce and implement these plans. Women w ere also found to think more about divorce and talk to friends during the divorce decision-making process. These findings indicate that the divorce process is not the same for men and women and that statements of divorce intent are not equivalent for both. Additionally, the divor ce process is probably more accurately reflected in the thoughts and a ctions of wives.