A Model for the Evaluation of Readiness for Divorce

Abstract

The purpose of the model presented here is to examine the readiness of a couple for separation, for divorce, and their ability to negotiate and go through a mediation process. The model is based on tools from the area of Art Therapy and relates to the dimension of the personality of each of the couple, to the inter-personal dimension and the connection between the two dimensions. The model was developed by the two writers and was amlied to manv couales. The' article wili present the model and a des'c;iption of a case s&d in order to demonstrate its use. The article will not relate to such aJditiona1 aspects in the rocess of mediation as the functioning of parents or an evaluation o / ' the children's situation. [Arlicle copies availablefor a fie J i m R e Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: getinfo@awor~h.com] THE RATIONALE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MODELThere has lately been increased awareness among couples who apply for divorce mediation as a way to reach a divorce agreement. Even when couples apply for mediation the process often breaks down. The reason for Yedidya Tova, PhD, is a clinical social worker, The School of Social Work, Bar-llan University, Israel. Yerushalmi Hassia, PhD in Psychology, is affiliated with "Maavarim" Clinic for Psychotherapy, Herzlia-Pituach, Israel. [Haworth co-indexing entry note]: "A Model for the Evaluation of Readiness for Divome." Tova, Yedidya and Yerushalmi Hassia. Co-published simultencously in Journal o/Divoree & Remarriage (The Hswonh Press. copies of this anicle are available for a fee from The Hawonh Documcnt Delivery Service [I-800-342-9678, 9:W am. -5:W p.m. (EST). Email address: gctinf~wonh.mm]. O 1997 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights resewed. 115 116 DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE: INTERNATIONAL STUDIESthis can usually be found in the fact that the therapist has not located the underlying conflicts or the position of the couple with regard to their readiness for the process of divorce (Kressel, 1983). The central questions facing the therapist are how ready the couple is emotionally to end the marriage, and how able the couple is to negotiate a divorce agreement appropriate for their needs and those of thc children.The model is based on an evaluation process that is intended to answer these questions. It is intended to design the divorce mcdiation process according to the unique pattern of each couple who applies or who is referred. The model also examines the possibility of reconciliation with an appropriate therapy program.The phase before divorce is characterised by a sense of emotional upheaval mixed with such feelings as alienation, distance, fear, distress, ambivalence. The behavioral implications of these are confrontations and quarrels on the one hand and, on the other, denial,