Divorced men's lived experiences and their coping mechanisms in the Eswatini kingdom: Implications for policy and development

Abstract

Studies have shown that the impact of divorce on individuals involved is enormous but little attention has been given to how divorce  affects men. This study therefore explored divorced men's lived experiences and their coping mechanisms. This phenomenological study  used purposive sampling and snowballing techniques to select 12 divorced men from Eswatini Kingdom in Swaziland. Thematic data  analysis was used to analyse the data. The following themes were formed 1) Psychological and emotional stressors in divorce 2) effect of  divorce 3) coping mechanism and 4) personal analysis of the divorce process. In theme 1, public and religious views, emotional and  financial stressors were the sub-themes identified. In theme 2, health and wellness, and family dynamics such as children, extended  family, new spouse, and neighbours were affected. Adaptive and maladaptive coping mechanisms emerged as sub-themes for theme 3.  Perceived contributory factors to divorce are infidelity, sexual incompatibility, lack of respect, irreconcilable differences, and emotional  awareness such as the impact on self, and others emerged as sub-themes for theme 4. It is concluded that while some men bounce back  from the divorce experience and can deal with its negative effects, some find it difficult to return to their previous level of functioning. It  is recommended that government and relevant stakeholders should create/or strengthen the existing community-based networks like  “lisango” to promote psychological well-being. And formulate policies that promote, mental health awareness and referral, gender  equality, and upholding traditional values.