Trends, Impacts, and Emerging Perspectives on Divorce in Kerala- A Review Approach

Trends, Impacts, and Emerging Perspectives on Divorce in Kerala- A Review Approach | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Systematic Review Trends, Impacts, and Emerging Perspectives on Divorce in Kerala- A Review Approach Anas Tharakan This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6010260/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 9 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract This study aims to comprehensively understand the effects and impact of divorces in Kerala state through a systematic review approach. In India, the divorce rate is very low. However, Kerala has the most significant number of divorces. According to data from family courts, around 75 divorces occur in Kerala every single day. In this context, it becomes increasingly important to compile and study various research works on divorces in Kerala to gain a deeper understanding of the situation. The study used the systematic review approach based on an in-depth analysis of 13 research studies conducted between 2010 and 2024, all focusing on Divorce and its multifaceted impacts within the context of Kerala. The study synthesizes findings on demographic dimensions, reasons for divorce, and its impacts, including psycho-social and economic effects, as well as its impact on children. The study also analyzing divorce trends in religious and legal aspects, highlighting that employment is the most influential demographic factor contributing to divorce. Kerala's rising divorce rate calls for balanced, inclusive research addressing gaps like remarriage, legal awareness, and male perspectives while exploring both negative and positive outcomes. Studies should focus on longitudinal and solution-oriented approaches to better understand and mitigate divorce-related challenges. Comprehensive research will inform effective policies and interventions for addressing divorce complexities in Kerala. Divorce in Kerala marital dissolution divorce impacts Figures Figure 1 Introduction Divorce, as a formal legal dissolution of marriage, has long been a subject of scholarly inquiry, reflecting its profound implications for individuals, families, and societies. With almost 2,000 articles published since 2000, divorce has continued to be a major topic of social science research interest over the last 20 years (Amato, 2010 ).This sustained academic attention underscores the evolving nature of marital dissolution and its multifaceted consequences in an increasingly complex world. The impact of technological advancements along with industrialization, modernization, urbanization, and population density has been identified as a key factor contributing to the increasing complexity, impersonality of daily life and family transformation and increasing divorces in society (Vincent& D'Mello, 2018). The Oxford Dictionary of Sociology defines Divorce as "the formal legal dissolution of a legally constituted marriage." Divorce traces its origin back to the Latin derivative, meaning "splitting of a unit." In other words, Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage, emphasizing its multifaceted impact on individuals and society (Mohapatra & Shanmugam, 2020). These definitions underscore both the legal and social aspects of divorce, highlighting its wide-ranging effects on individuals and communities. According to Amato ( 2010 ), divorce should be viewed as one of several changes that take place over the course of a family's life cycle rather than as a singular event. This point of view illustrates the intricate and contradictory dynamics of divorce. Divorce has far-reaching consequences, including, but not limited to, psychosocial and economic issues that affect children profoundly. Therefore, it must be studied (Sarmadi & Khodabakhshi-Koolaee, 2023). In the Indian context, marriage and Divorce are deeply intertwined with religious and cultural traditions. Often in India, marriage is perceived as an important institution that is further strengthened by the customs and rituals that sanctify it (Ramanuja, 2010 ; Srivastava, 2010 ). Even so, the emphasis on the preservation of marriage is deeply rooted in the Indian culture and shows regional differences in divorce figures that were traditionally low. According to Census data (Chandramouli & General, 2011), India has one of the lowest divorce rates globally, with only 13 divorces per 1,000 marriages. However, states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Sikkim, and West Bengal, as well as southern states such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have reported relatively higher rates of marital dissolution. Kerala, in particular, has emerged as a study of a notable case in terms of Divorce in India. Recent studies reveal a significant increase in divorce rates in the state, dubbing it the "capital of divorce" (Rajasenan et al., 2022). Data indicates that approximately 75 divorce petitions are filed daily across the state's 28 family courts, reflecting a steady increase in marital dissolutions from 2016 to 2022 (Tharakan, 2024 ). This trend raises questions about the underlying social, economic and psychological factors running this change, especially in view of the strong cultural and religious traditions of Kerala around the wedding of Kerala. Despite the growing incidence of Divorce in Kerala, there remains a paucity of research exploring its impacts within this specific context. At the same time, studies have examined the widespread results of Divorce, including its psychosocial and economic effects. The unique cultural, social, and legal dynamics of Kerala require a concentrated investigation. This paper seeks to address this difference by adopting a systematic review approach to synthesize the existing research on the effects of Divorce in Kerala. By doing this, it is to provide the landscape developed in the state and a wide understanding of its implications for individuals, families and society. Methodological approach This systematic review approach is based on the analysis of 13 research studies conducted between 2010 and 2024, which focuses on Divorce and its effects in terms of Kerala. The study follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to ensure a transparent and structured review process. A comprehensive literature discovery was conducted using major academic databases, including Scopus, Shodhganga and Google Scholars. In Kerala, keywords such as "divorce in Kerala", "consequences of divorce", "divorce trend in Kerala," and "impacts of divorce" were used to identify relevant studies. The complete text of each article was reviewed to draw detailed information about the objectives, functioning and findings of the study. Additionally, reference lists of selected articles were examined further to identify relevant letters. The study uses a combination of primary and secondary data for analysis. Specific inclusion criteria guided the selection of studies for this review: Studies focusing on Divorce and its various effects and impacts in Kerala. Studies published between January 2010 and December 2024. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals or research reports. PhD theses are available in the Shodhganga repository. Exclusion criteria: Studies that provide only national or international perspectives without specific insights into Kerala. Studies classified as review articles. Based on these criteria, 13 studies were selected for analysis, including 10 peer-reviewed journal articles and 3 PhD theses. These studies were selected to ensure a wide understanding of the divorce phenomenon in Kerala premise, its sociological dimensions and its versatile effects. The selection of articles for this study was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework, as illustrated in the PRISMA flowchart in Fig. 1 . A systematic review approach was adopted to analyze selected studies. This included examining each study's objectives, sociological references, functioning and major findings. The review process was structured to ensure the rigorous and transparent synthesis of available literature. Table 1 summarizes 13 analyzed studies, highlighting their main findings. Selected studies have great variations in the functioning employed. Five of the 13 studies utilized a quantitative approach, employing standardized scales, self-designed structured questionnaires, and secondary data analysis. Two studies adopted a qualitative approach, using interview schedules and phenomenological analysis. In comparison, six studies employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques, such as interview schedules and self-structured questionnaires. The study included only 13 studies, primarily due to the limited availability of research on divorce from the perspective of Kerala. The tools used for data collection across the studies included standardized scales and self-designed structured questionnaires in one quantitative study, interview schedules in six studies (including one qualitative, one quantitative, and four mixed-methods studies), secondary data analysis in three quantitative studies, phenomenological analysis in one qualitative study, and a combination of close-ended questionnaires and case studies in one quantitative study. The samples in the selected studies varied based on the research objectives. Four studies focused on divorced women, one examined abandoned women, and another investigated deserted women. One study explored adolescents from divorced families, while another included custodial parents, noncustodial parents, counsellors, advocates, and social workers. Additionally, one study analyzed married women, one centered on Muslim women, and three utilized secondary data from family court records. This methodological diversity reflects the complexity of Divorce as a research topic and underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to understanding its impacts. By synthesizing findings from studies with varying methodologies and sample characteristics, this review aims to provide a holistic perspective, especially on the impact and effect of Divorce in Kerala, contributing to a deeper understanding of its sociodemographic and psychological dimensions. Table 1 The summary of 13 studies analyzed Study no Type of the study Authors and year Name of the study Location of the study and target population Objective of the study Methodology Outcome measures used Major findings 1 PhD thesis Michael ( 2013 ) A study on psychological wellbeing and quality of life Malappuram district, Kerala. 316 divorced women To study the Psychological wellbeing and Quality of Life of Divorced Muslim Women in Kerala. Descriptive study, mixed methodology Interview schedule, (Psychological wellbeing) PGWB scale (1970), WHO – QOL(1996) scale, mean, standard deviation, correlation, multiple regression analysis, ANOVA Marital conflict and Divorce were driven by neglect, non-caring behaviour, abusive behaviours such as scolding, physical violence, neglect of daily needs, disinterest in sexual relationships, suspicious attitudes, husbands' irregular presence at home, abusive treatment, and interference from in-laws. Women faced financial struggles and emotional challenges like anxiety and poor health and were often forced into employment. Many coped through hobbies, sharing feelings, or spending time with children, though younger women showed lower psychological wellbeing. Employment post-divorce improved their quality of life. 2 Journal article Ariplackal and George (2014) Psychological Components for Marital Distress and Divorce in Newlywed Indian Couples Kannur, Kerala; 20 newlywed divorced couples To explore the core psychological reasons as to what leads to this phenomenon: How do happy newlywed couples so often become unhappy couples later in marriage? Qualitative method Semi-structured interview schedule an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) were used Psychological distress in newlywed couples, especially in sibling position and personality traits. Wives were more likely than husbands to initiate Divorce. Psychological resistance and a significant amount of stress both in the couple and their family of origin to accommodate the second-order change in the newlywed. The discrepancies in spouses' personality attributes subsequently changed happy newlywed couples into unhappy ones. 3 Journal article Premsingh,JG and Philip,SR.(2014) A Study on Increasing the Divorce Rate in Kerala Kerala state. To identify the reasons for Divorce and analyze divorce trends based on data from family courts Quantitative method The study employs secondary data analysis, utilizing existing data from family court records. Divorce can result from infidelity, abuse, addiction, financial strain, poor communication, incompatibility, and falling out of love. Other causes include cultural differences, mental health issues, lack of commitment, in-law interference, and unmet expectations. Between 2011 and 2012, family courts in Kerala saw a rising trend in divorce cases, with Thiruvananthapuram recording the highest number, followed by Kollam, Thrissur, and other districts. 4 PhD thesis Sindhu ( 2014 ) Abandoned Muslim wives Victims of early marriage Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts, Kerala. 500 abandoned Muslim wives To analyze the multifaceted dimensions of early marriage, including violence, abandonment, victim perceptions, awareness of exploitation, contributing factors to abandonment, and challenges faced by abandoned Muslim wives. Descriptive study, mixed method Structured interview schedule, Socioeconomic Status Scale - S.C. Tiwari, Aditya Kumar, and Ambrish Kumar(2005), percentage analysis, chi-square test and mean analysis The study identifies major determinants of initial marriages in rural, lower-class Muslim families, including dowry, cultural priorities, economic strategies, plurals and parents' concerns. Early married women face sexual, physical and psychological violence, often leading to abandonment and short marriage, as a result of these harmful practices, financial conflict, health issues, psychological crisis and social stigma, inter-generated poverty and vulnerability. 5. Journal article Vasudevan et al. (2015) causes of Divorce: a descriptive study from central Kerala Kottayam, Kerala; 60 couples who are in the process of Divorce and currently separated Causes of Divorce among the couples Descriptive study, mixed methodology Pretested, semi-structured interview schedule Adjustment problems within the extended family, alcoholism, and resulting physical abuse were the leading causes of Divorce among the couples in Kerala. More females were found to initiate proceedings for Divorce than males. The divorce rate is higher among people with a college education in both genders. 6 Working paper Jafar (2015) Status of Muslim Women in Kerala: A Study of Female Age at Marriage in Malappuram District Malappuram district,Kerala. 1543 females. To analyze the impact of marriage on the education and occupation of Muslim women, with a focus on how family preferences, cultural norms, and early marriage influence their autonomy and socioeconomic status Mixed method Questionnaire, interview, observation, percentage analysis, one-way ANOVA Marriage heavily influences Muslim women's education and employment, often dictated by family preferences. Many discontinue education or jobs (except teaching) due to marital obligations, while unmarried women and Gulf wives often have higher education levels. Early marriage frequently disrupts education, reversing earlier trends where education delayed marriage. Cultural norms and community perceptions further limit women's autonomy, highlighting the need for legal and socioeconomic reforms beyond education and employment. 7 Journal article Saraswathy ( 2016 ) Factors influencing Women's attitudes towards Divorce Palakkad, Kerala; 231 married women Women's attitude toward Divorce, between attitude to Divorce and personal variables Quantitative methodology Interview schedule associated with women's employment, spousal adjustment, and children's wellbeing. Attitude to divorce score has a high positive correlation (.000) with women's employment at 1% significance level. 8 Journal article Jabir ( 2017 ) Mysore Marriages of Kerala: A Study on the Issues and Concerns of deserted women Malappuram district, 100 respondents (75 deserted women who returned to their natal homes and 25 key informants) To examine the consequences of Mysore Marriages on the lives of deserted women and their children Mixed method Interview schedule The study reveals that deserted women often face violence, financial struggles, and emotional stress, with some returning due to husbands' infidelity. Despite employment, they rely on parental support due to low earnings. Most reject reuniting with marital families and encounter legal barriers. Many prefer independence with their children, needing support in housing, livelihood, legal aid, and children's education. 9 PhD thesis Aneesh ( 2019 ) Exploring Divorce in Kerala Eranakulam district,Kerala. 20 key informants 20 custodial parents 11 noncustodial parents and 20 adolescent children This study examines the perceptions of adolescents, parents, and key informants on the reasons for Divorce and its effects on parenting, self, and extended family relationships. It also explores the impact on adolescents' self-concept, family and peer relationships, and academic performance. qualitative exploratory research design Semi-structured interview schedule, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), thematic analysis The study found that Divorce stems from multiple factors like family interference, domestic violence, substance abuse, financial issues, and poor communication. Its effects vary: women face financial and societal challenges, men endure emotional and physical stress, and adolescents are impacted by custodial care quality. Societal stigma, especially against divorced women, worsens these outcomes, underscoring the complex role of gender and social norms. 10 Journal article Rajasenan et al. (2022) Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Act and Divorce of Muslim Women in Malappuram District Malappuram district, Kerala. 91 divorced women To explore the reasons and consequences of Divorce among Muslim women in Malappuram. Mixed method Close-ended questionnaire, case studies, factor analysis. The study highlights the rate of increasing Divorce in Kerala, which is inspired by forced marriage, misbehaviour and awareness about rights among educated women. The main reasons include a lack of spousal support, conflicts with in-laws, and trust issues. After the department, women face psychological trauma, financial instability and social stigma, with limited awareness about legal safety, such as the Muslim Women's Act, 2019. Despite challenges, many women view Divorce as the right decision, underscoring the need for more significant support and awareness. 11 Journal article Mathew, A (2023) Economics of marriage and breakdown: A case study of Kozhikode district in Kerala Kozhikode district, Kerala. Sixty samples were collected through unpublished secondary data from different advocates in and around Kozhikode who dealt with divorce cases in family courts. The study explores the relationship between marriage expenses, legal costs, and court-approved alimony while assessing economic suffering by gender. It also analyzes divorce rates and spending patterns across religions and identifies age groups with the highest divorce rates. Quantitative method Secondary data analysis, Analysis of Variance, Mean, Standard Deviation and Correlation and ANOVA. The analysis of marriage expenses across religions shows Muslims have the highest average expenses (892,860), followed by Christians (757,140) and Hindus (646,150), with a significant variation in all groups. The ANOVA test found no significant difference in marriage expenses among the religions (p-value = 0.235). Regarding marriage and Divorce, 50% of marriages occur before 27, and 70% of divorces happen within the first 7 years. ANOVA tests for marriage duration and legal expenses revealed no significant differences. Females typically bear higher marriage and legal expenses, while males bear the cost of alimony. Correlation analysis indicated weak relationships between marriage expenses and alimony for both genders. 12 Journal article Mon J and Shalini (2024) quality of life among adolescents in divorced families; a quantitative analysis in Kannur district, Kerala Kannur district, Kerala. 60 adolescents in the age category of 12–19 years among the divorced families The primary aim of this study is to analyze the quality of life among the adolescents in divorced families in Kannur district, Kerala Descriptive research design, quantitative method. The self-structured questionnaire, WHOQOL –BREF scale. The majority of respondents reported that their parents had divorced within the past 1–2 years, and most of them now live with their mother following the Divorce. Nearly half of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their quality of life, particularly about health. Furthermore, the majority indicated a decline in their quality of life only after their parents' Divorce. 13 Journal article Tharakan ( 2024 ) Unveiling Divorce Trends in Kerala: Inferences from Family Courts Kerala state To explore the trends and patterns of Divorce in Kerala Quantitative method The study employs secondary data analysis, utilizing existing data from family court records. From 2016 to 2022, divorce cases in Kerala's family courts rose by 40%, from 19,233 to 26,976. Ernakulam had the highest petitions (3,536), while Wayanad had the least (538). Hindu Marriage Act cases dominated (16,860 in 2022), with fewer under the Muslim Marriage Act. In 2022, an average of 75 daily filings (three divorces per hour) were recorded, signalling exponential growth and the need for deeper analysis of marital stability in Kerala. Results A systematic review approach was used to summarize the findings of 13 studies within the divorce framework. Three studies analyzed family court records to examine the patterns and trends of Divorce in Kerala. Two studies examined the psychological health of divorced women, while two more examined Muslim women who had been left or abandoned. Another research study examined the quality of life for teenagers in divorced households. One study explored Divorce more broadly, while two others looked at the reasons and effects of Divorce based on the opinions of divorced women. Additionally, one study analyzed the impact of marriage on the education and occupation of Muslim women, and another focused on married women's attitudes toward Divorce. Geographical Focus The studies were conducted in various districts across Kerala, with two focusing on the entire state. A significant number of studies, five in total, were concentrated in Malappuram district. Kannur district accounted for three studies, while Kozhikode had two. Additionally, one study each was conducted in Ernakulam, Palakkad, and Kottayam districts. Demographic Dimensions Examining the sociodemographic characteristics linked to Divorce, such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, education, and employment, and comprehending how these aspects are represented in the research is crucial before evaluating the data from different studies. Age Age is a crucial factor in both marriage and Divorce, with early marriage often leading to marriage breakdown and Divorce (Michael, 2013 ; Ariplackal & George, 2014 ; Sindhu, 2014 ; Rajasenan et al., 2022; Mathew A, 2023). Mathew A. (2023) found that most breakups happen early in marriage, and the chance of separation decreases the longer a couple stays married. (Michael, 2013 ) identified higher age for marriage include having fewer children, achieving self-dependence, completing studies, and reaching physical maturity. The study found that the mean age at marriage among respondents was 15.1 years, with a significant number married at or below the age of 14 and others between 15 and 17 years. This highlights the considerably lower marriage age among poor Muslim girls in rural Malabar, sometimes as early as 12 years, despite Kerala's higher overall average marriage age compared to the rest of India (Sindhu, 2014 ). The divorce rate among individuals over 50 years was found to be relatively low, at 1.3% for females and 3.2% for males (Vasudevan et al., 2015). Furthermore, the majority of Muslim women reported that marriage led to discontinuing their education and employment, prompting a suggestion to reconsider the legal age of marriage (Jafar, 2015). The mean age of deserted women was 33 years, suggesting that desertion tends to occur within a few years of marriage (Jabir, 2017 ). Furthermore, Rajasenan et al. (2022) found that Divorce was more common among young and middle-aged women, with most respondents being married before turning 23. Despite the fact that such weddings are prohibited in India, a startlingly high percentage of these ladies were married between the ages of 12 and 17. The study made clear that early marriage has a significant effect on the academic and professional development of Muslim divorced women in particular. Furthermore, Age difference emerged as another critical factor contributing to Divorce. The study found that quick divorces were more common among couples with an age difference of 6 to 11 years who had lived together for 1 to 5 years, accounting for 64.2% of such cases. In contrast, divorces among couples with an age difference of 0 to 5 years who had lived together for the same duration constituted 20.7% of the cases. Gender Research highlights significant gender dynamics in Divorce. According to Michael ( 2013 ), husbands predominantly initiate divorce proceedings. However, studies by Ariplackal and George ( 2014 ), Aneesh ( 2019 ), and Rajasena et al. (2022) indicate a growing trend of women initiating Divorce, especially in Kerala, where increased awareness of women's rights and strong family support systems encourage this shift. According to Vasudevan et al. (2015), both men and women with college degrees had greater divorce rates. Saraswathy ( 2016 ) highlighted that women's opinions toward Divorce are influenced by a number of circumstances, including employment, marital adjustment, and the wellness of the children. In order to reduce the likelihood of Divorce, the study emphasizes the significance of shared family obligations. According to Aneesh ( 2019 ), Divorce has complex repercussions for both sexes, while women have more difficulties. Patriarchal norms intensify women's post-divorce struggles, making them more vulnerable and less able to recover. Divorce for women often leads to dual stigmatization—as both women and divorcees. Mathew ( 2023 ) further examines the gender-based economic implications of Divorce. Women face high marriage expenses, mainly due to gold and jewellery, which later compensate them for marital breakdown. Legal expenses have a greater burden for women, but alimony puts significant financial stress on men who should support pre-husbands or wives and children. In Muslims, lifelong alimony is often paid in the same transaction. These studies collectively explain how gender shapes the initiation, experience and economic results of Divorce, which reflect wide social norms and inequalities. Religion Religion plays a crucial role in Divorce in different religions. Michael ( 2013 ) highlights that many Mapilla Muslim women experience Divorce through Mutalaq yet demonstrate higher psychological wellbeing and life satisfaction post-divorce compared to women from other religious backgrounds, suggesting cultural resilience. Ariplackal and George ( 2014 ) emphasize that India's diverse spiritual traditions shape marital norms, with Hinduism viewing marriage as a sacred, lifelong bond, Islam treating Nikah as a civil contract permitting Divorce, and Christianity considering marriage an indissoluble sacrament. Indian law, through the Family Court Act (1984), prioritizes harmony and family secrecy in marital disputes. Aneesh ( 2019 ) said that spirituality and prayer are powerful mechanisms for individuals dealing with the emotional challenges of Divorce, offering a sense of solitude, power and divine support. Rajasenan et al. (2022) further elaborate that Islamic marriage ensures financial security for women through Mahr and details structured divorce modes. Notably, six studies focused exclusively on Muslim respondents. Employment The relationship between employment and Divorce is complex, influenced by factors like financial stability, work-life balance, and individual stress. Michael ( 2013 ) noted that 43.7% of respondents in a divorce study were private employees, reflecting the challenges faced by those balancing employment and marital commitments, and Almost three-fourths of the respondents (71.2%) felt that they were forced to do employment after Divorce. Sindhu ( 2014 ) found that unemployment was common among divorcees, with some women in low-income jobs like housemaids or casual labourers relying heavily on extended family for support. Similarly, Vasudevan et al. (2015) reported that half of the respondents were unemployed. Jafar (2015) observed that while homemakers dominate married and divorced groups, a small portion of Gulf wives and unmarried women hold salaried positions. Non-migrant women engage more in agricultural labour and MGNREGS jobs, while higher education and remittances have reduced manual labour participation. Saraswathy ( 2016 ) and Rajasthan et al. (2022) emphasized a strong connection between women's employment and their attitudes toward Divorce. Jabir ( 2017 ) highlighted that while 64% of women engage in labour for survival, barriers such as inadequate family support or skills persist. Rajasenon et al. (2022) revealed that 45.1% of Muslim divorced women in Malabar are mainly working in low-paid private sector jobs. Despite achieving some financial freedom, these women face livelihood insecurity. Interestingly, education disintegration during marriage often started after being divided later, reflecting a social tendency where women's education is temporarily preferred during marriage talks, but marriage Later is reduced. Education Education plays an important role in shaping marital dynamics and affecting divorce rates. Michael ( 2013 ) mentioned that about half of the respondents had completed secondary education, highlighting a basic level of educational attainment. Ariprackel and George (2014) observed that modern education has changed the expectations of women in marriage, promoted desires for equality and challenged traditional patriarchal norms. This change has increased marital conflicts in cases where partners have traditional views. Studies like Sindhu ( 2014 ) and Vasudevan et al. (2015) revealed that while in Kerala, the literacy rate among women is high, the dropout rate remains a barrier to higher education, in which early marriage is an important obstacle. Educational attainment affects the age of marriage; illiterate women marry small. In contrast, higher educational attainment among Gulf wives and unmarried women in Malappuram, as highlighted by Jafar (2015), suggests that education is linked to delayed marriage and greater independence. Rajasenan et al. (2022) found that while most Muslim divorced women in Malabar have only secondary education, there is a growing trend among younger women completing higher education, signalling improved prospects for economic empowerment. These insights demonstrate education's dual role as both a stabilizing factor in marriages and a potential driver of marital dissolution when it empowers women to challenge inequitable or abusive situations. Socio- economic status Many studies point out the socio-economic factors and cultural practices affecting Divorce in women in Kerala. Michael ( 2013 ) exhibits the financial problems faced by divorced women, many of whom live in rented housing with low income levels and limited financial support. Lack of maintenance from Ex-husbands often leaves them dependent on local self-help groups, charitable organizations and NGOs. addition to this maintaining child custody, property loss and social stigma contribute to their struggles. Sindhu ( 2014 ) explained how marriage and wife abandonment among low economic-level rural Muslims in Malabar. These women often return to their parents' homes, revealing the affected families' socioeconomic vulnerability. Economic pressure and cultural criteria are in an initial marriage position as a strategy to deal with poverty. Contrasting these findings, Vasudevan et al. (2015) report higher divorce rates among middle and upper socioeconomic groups, where 79.1% of divorce seekers lived in extended family setups. Socioeconomic status emerges as a critical factor influencing marital dissolution. Jafar (2015) and Jabir ( 2017 ) emphasize the economic results of Divorce, explaining how women reach from their matrimonial status for education and employment. While 64% of livelihood wages are engaged in labour, employment obstacles persist due to limited family assistance, skills and education. The lack of ownership of productive assets exacerbates their insecurity, with many relying on parental support post-divorce. Aneesh ( 2019 ) discusses shifting family roles from economic survival to emotional fulfilment alongside societal changes that reduce the stigma around Divorce divorce. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, righteousness, and childbirth in marriage significantly affect the risk of Divorce. Rajasenon et al. (2022) Identification of early marriage, often inspired by family preference, forcibly as a primary cause of marriage. Factors contributing include poverty, sibling marriage pressure, delayed fear of marriage and financial concerns about future grooms. Finally, Mathew ( 2023 ) draws attention to the financial burden that Divorce causes, pointing out that although marriage is seen as a lavish occasion in Kerala, its dissolution upsets the state of the economy. Marriage costs are frequently excluded from alimony rulings, which puts additional financial strain on separating couples, particularly male partners. Reasons for Divorce There are different reasons for the increasing divorce rates in Kerala. Thadathil and Sriram (2019) list the primary reasons behind the divorces as Harassment from the husband and husband's family, domestic violence, dowry, substance abuse, communication gap, Infidelity and extramarital relationships, Lack of physical intimacy and psychological issues. The type of marriage, whether arranged or love marriage, also determines the initiative for Divorce (Mitra & Gayathri, 2015). Incompatibility, apathy, lack of communication and loss of mutual trust are some of the reasons for Divorce, and in most cases, illiterate women face a financial crisis after Divorce (Kaneez,2015). A systematic review of the examined papers highlighted several common causes of Divorce, which are discussed in the coming section. Age deference and early marriage Research highlights age disparity and early marriage as significant factors contributing to Divorce. Michael ( 2013 ) found that 69.3% of respondents identified age differences between partners as a reason for marital breakdown, while 34.5% attributed early marriages to familial poverty. Sindhu ( 2014 ) connected early marriage to marital violence, including sexual violence and wife abandonment. Rajasenan et al. (2022) emphasized that the age difference between 6 and 11 years is a determining factor, in which 64.2% divorce is with Divorce in couples living together for 1 to 5 years. In contrast, the age difference between 0 to 5 years in the same period was responsible for only 20.7% divorce, underlining the complex intercourse between age dynamics and marital stability. Dowry Michael ( 2013 ) highlights in the study that a significant number of respondents revealed that their parents provided dowry as per the demands of the bridegroom's family. A notable portion of husbands utilized the dowry and associated assets entirely. In several cases, women sought their parents' assistance to reclaim these properties but faced resistance and conflict. Many respondents endured abusive treatment when attempting to recover their dowry and belongings after the dissolution of the marriage. These patterns highlight the persistent role of dowry disputes as a contributing factor to marital breakdown and subsequent divorces. Similarly, Jabir ( 2017 ) found that dowry issues have played little (7%) role in desertion or return to home. Abuse and Harassment Research indicates that abuse and cruelty are important factors for Divorce. Michael ( 2013 ) states that many wives experience various forms of ill-treatment, including physical violence, continuous scolding, neglect of daily needs and lack of interest in marital intimacy. Additionally, strained relationships with in-laws, particularly mistreatment by mothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, further contribute to marital discord. Vasudevan et al. (2022) emphasize that cruelty and abuse from husbands are primary reasons for Divorce. Jabir ( 2017 ) also notes that many women face domestic violence, including insults, Harassment, and physical abuse, which ultimately lead to the breakdown of marriages. Collectively, these studies highlight the deep-rooted impact of abuse and emotional distress in marital dissolution. Lack of care and support from husband The reasons for marital disharmony and Divorce, as highlighted by Michael ( 2013 ) and Rajasena et al. (2022) who emphasize the husband's role in the relationship. Michael ( 2013 ) found that many respondents cited the husband's irregular presence at home as a key factor, while others pointed to his lack of care and the interference of possessive parents. Similarly, Rajasena et al. (2022) identified the husband's lack of care as a significant reason for Divorce. These findings collectively suggest that emotional neglect, physical absence, and external familial influences contribute significantly to marital breakdown. The husband's failure to provide an emotional and physical presence, coupled with the over-involvement of his parents, creates a strained marital environment, ultimately leading to Divorce. Disinterest in sexual relations Michael ( 2013 ) and Premsingh and Philip ( 2014 ) highlight the important factors for marital discord and marriage. They emphasize that the husband's apathy in sexual relations, neglect in meeting daily needs, and suspected behaviour towards his wife are important reasons for the crisis. These issues create emotional and physical distances between partners and reduce faith and mutual support in the relationship. When a husband withdraws from intimacy, fails to fulfil the fundamental responsibilities, and displays mistrust, it promotes an atmosphere of insecurity and dissatisfaction, eventually leading to marital breakdown. Psychological issues Studies have shown that psychiatric disorders of a spouse, personality traits, and suspicious behaviour are significant factors contributing to marital problems and Divorce (Ariplackal & George, 2014 ; Vasudevan et al., 2015; Premsingh & Philip, 2014 ). Michael ( 2013 ) emphasizes that suspicious behaviour toward his wife is a significant cause of distress. Substance abuse Alcoholism among husbands has been identified as a significant factor influencing women's decision to initiate Divorce in Kerala (Ariplackal & George, 2014 ; Vasudevan et al., 2015). Beyond just causing problems with one's own health, alcoholism also contributes to financial instability, domestic violence, and general family distress, all of which can result in the dissolution of a marriage (Vasudevan et al., 2015). Furthermore, research highlights that substance abuse, in general, is one of the major causes of Divorce (Aneesh, 2019 ; Premsingh & Philip, 2014 ), emphasizing its detrimental impact on marital relationships and family stability. Infidelity and extramarital relationship Adultery and infidelity have been identified as primary causes of Divorce in Kerala (Vasudevan et al., 2015; Premsingh & Philip, 2014 ). Jabir ( 2017 ) further highlights that 32.3% of women who returned to their parental homes cited their husband's illicit relationships as a significant reason, finding it difficult to accept. Similarly, Aneesh ( 2019 ) emphasizes that extramarital affairs play a significant role in driving Divorce. Poor communication One major reason for Divorce is the communication gap between husband and wife. (Rajasenan et al. 2022; Premsingh & Philip, 2014 ; Mathew,2023)highlight communication gaps between spouses as a primary cause of Divorce, particularly among women. Similarly, Vasudevan et al. (2015) identify desertion and neglect as significant factors behind Divorce and that affecting both men and women. Domestic violence Physical abuse and domestic violence are significant causes of marriage breakdown, as noted in various studies. Vasudevan et al. (2015), Premsingh & Philip ( 2014 ), and Aneesh ( 2019 ) emphasize that abuse in all forms—physical, sexual, and emotional—along with criminal behaviour toward wives contribute to Divorce. Jabir ( 2017 ) further highlights the prevalence of violence, reporting that 32.4% of female respondents experienced insults, Harassment, and physical assault within their marriages. Impacts of Divorce Psychological problems Research highlights the important psychological crisis experienced by continuous Divorce, causing primary mental health to be the primary concern. Michael (2023) notes that emotional breakdown is common, and many individuals experience mildly severe crises. The copying mechanisms include spending time with children, engaging in religious activities, chasing hobbies and consuming media. However, anxiety about the future, financial insecurity, health concerns and children's goodness are prevalent stress. Emotional reactions such as shock, anxiety, despair, anger and sleep disturbances are often reported. Studies have identified a range of psychological issues among divorced individuals, including depression, anxiety, stress, loneliness, social interaction anxiety, and heightened anger levels (Ariplackal & George, 2014 ; Jabir, 2017 ; Aneesh, 2019 ). According to Sindhu ( 2014 ), psychological distress is pervasive and manifests as emotional turmoil, low self-esteem, and guilt. Compared to people who married later, those who married very young (12–14 years old) typically have more severe problems. Additionally, older divorcees report higher levels of psychological distress than younger ones, indicating that both early marriage and advanced age are associated with increased emotional and mental health difficulties. Rajasenan et al. (2022) have given importance to further mental health aspects of Divorce. Depression, anger, anxiety, insomnia and other psychological manifestations have been included. In such cases, in order to address the symptoms and overcome the challenge, medication must be provided; therefore, psychological intervention strategies along with support shall be needed so that the distressed individual may have an opportunity for the reconstruction of wellbeing. Social impacts According to Rajasena et al.(2022), Divorce has serious social implications, especially for women. After divorce, women often face strained relationships with friends and family, social isolation, and exclusion from public events.The pervasive stigma in Ernakulam, where patriarchal norms intensify emotional distress and social scrutiny, especially for women and adolescents, is highlighted by Aneesh ( 2019 ). In his discussion of social alienation, Michael ( 2013 ) points out that divorced people frequently face humiliation and strained relationships as a result of being left out of decisions made in the home and at social events. Sindhu ( 2014 ) highlights the harsh treatment of divorced women in India, who face stigma, ill-treatment, and a lack of support. Unlike widows, they are often denied fundamental rights and unfairly labelled. While some studies indicate changing attitudes toward Divorce in parts of India (Vasudevan et al., 2015; Saraswathy, 2016 ), the overall societal perception remains challenging. The studies collectively call for public education, anti-stigma campaigns, and better support systems to promote acceptance and resilience among divorced individuals. Economic difficulties Divorced women from rural, lower-class Muslim families in Malabar face severe financial difficulties (Sindhu, 2014 ), primarily due to low education and limited income-generating skills, affecting basic needs like food, healthcare, and children's education. Early marriage exacerbates economic struggles, contributing to the feminization of poverty (Saraswathy, 2016 ; Jabir, 2017 ; Aneesh, 2019 ). According to Rajasenan et al. (2022), non-working divorced women, especially those with child custody, face severe hardships and often rely on their natal families when husbands fail to provide maintenance. While working women manage better, financial insecurity persists. Many struggle to reclaim assets like jewellery and gifts, and maintenance during the Iddah period is often denied, highlighting the need for stronger legal and social support. Additionally, discontinued education or employment, post-marriage hampers their economic independence. Although marriage is a costly affair in Kerala, with no significant religious differences in expenditures, its economic benefits are disrupted by Divorce, leaving men burdened with alimony. At the same time, women face long-term financial insecurity (Mathew, 2023 ). Effect on Children Research on the effects of parental Divorce on children and adolescents highlights significant long-term challenges. Aneesh ( 2019 ) emphasizes that post-divorce adjustment largely depends on the custodial parent's ability to provide consistent support, discipline, and care. Adequate custody arrangements can mitigate the impact of poverty and parental absence, though no single model suits all families. Financial instability is a significant concern, as noted by Jabir ( 2017 ) and Sindhu ( 2014 ), who found that 89.3% of respondents faced economic hardships, with additional difficulties in child-rearing. Michael ( 2013 ) reported that 46% of Muslim respondents lacked proper accommodation, leading them to send their children to *Yatheem Khanas* (orphanages), with 36.8% doing so due to insufficient paternal support. Mon J and Shalini (2024) found that most children of divorced parents live with their mothers, with nearly half reporting a decline in their health-related quality of life after the Divorce. These studies collectively illustrate the multifaceted challenges children face post-divorce, spanning financial difficulties, custody issues, and overall wellbeing. Divorce trend (Premsingh & Philip, 2014 ) Highlight some statistics regarding Divorce in Kerala; as per the state government figures, between January 2011 and January 2012, the family courts in the state received 44,236 cases. The divorce cases of the last five years give one an idea of where the state is headed. The number was 8,456 in 2005-'06, 9,775 in 2006-'07, 9,937 in 2007-'08, 11,194 in 2008-'09, 11,600 in 2009- '10 and 24,815 in 2010-'11, Thiruvananthapuram, the capital, leads with 6,000 cases. Kollam comes second (4,243), Thrissur (4,063), Kozhikode (4,008), Malappuram (3,934), Ernakulam (3,712), Kottayam (2,880), Pathanamthitta (2,044), Alappuzha (2,361), Idukki (1,161), Kasargod (987), and Wayanad (341). Ariplackal and George ( 2014 ) highlight that Divorce remains a social taboo in India, with a significantly low rate compared to Western countries—only 1.1% compared to 54.8% in the U.S. Rural areas report even lower divorce rates. Data from Indidivorce (2012) and the 2001 Census indicate that 0.32% of India's population was divorced or separated, with a higher proportion of women. Rajasena et al. (2022) and Jacob & Chattopadhyay ( 2016 ) highlight that India has the lowest divorce rate globally, with 13 cases per 1,000 marriages. Census data (2011) indicate that divorces are more common in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Sikkim, West Bengal, and the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala, known for its high social development, has the highest divorce rate in India, with an increasing trend despite the establishment of family courts post-2005. Kannur, Palakkad, and Kozhikode had high rates of Divorce in 2019, whereas Wayanad district has a low rate compared to other districts of Kerala. In Malappuram, a Muslim-majority district, many divorces occur outside the court system through agreements. The enactment of the Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Act (2019) led to a slight decline in court-registered Muslim divorces. However, the overall divorce rate in Kerala continues to rise, aligning with global trends. Data limitations on informal divorces hinder comprehensive analysis. Tharakan ( 2024 ) reports recent divorce statistics in Kerala, a 40% rise in divorce cases in Kerala's family courts from 2016 to 2022, increasing from 19,233 to 26,976. Ernakulam recorded the highest number of cases (3,536), followed by Trivandrum and Kollam, while Wayanad, Kasargode, and Idukki had the lowest. The Hindu Marriage Act accounted for the majority of divorces (16,860 in 2022), followed by the Indian Divorce Act (Christian), with the Special Marriage Act having the least. Despite Malappuram's sizeable Muslim population, divorces under the Muslim Marriage Act were relatively low. One of the reasons behind this phenomenon is that Muslims practice divorce methods like Talaq, which are not documented in family courts. On average, 75 divorce petitions were filed daily in Kerala in 2022, indicating a rising trend. Legal aspects The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, criminalizes Triple Talaq to safeguard Muslim women's rights. Rajasenan et al. (2022) found that only 50.5% of respondents were aware of the Act, and 61.5% faced Triple Talaq, mainly before its enactment. Many still rely on religious institutions for Divorce and financial matters, highlighting the need for legal awareness. While the Act's long-term impact is uncertain, it remains crucial to prevent exploitation and ensure a structured legal divorce process. Another concern is that Divorce, especially without mutual consent, is a lengthy and stressful legal process. While its completion brings relief, divorced women often face psychological and financial struggles, along with societal stigma, making social reintegration difficult. Judicial proceedings do not contribute directly to the increasing rate of divorce in Kerala, but an analysis of the number of pending cases for divorce on the rise annually is an important thing. The process of divorce by courts takes years. As a result, remarriage plans become difficult without a divorce certificate. Aneesh ( 2019 ) and Michael ( 2013 ) emphasize that court procedures impact the children of divorced couples and highlight the need for legal awareness. Family Courts can play a crucial role by strengthening divorce counselling and expanding the role of marriage counsellors to prevent Divorce and support couples during and after the process. Jabir ( 2017 ) recommends strict legal measures to protect deserted married women, mandatory registration of interstate marriages and marital assets, compulsory FIR registration in desertion cases, and legal aid cells at district headquarters for dowry, Divorce, maintenance, and child custody support. According to Jafar (2015), child marriage continues to be rampant in Kerala, especially in Malappuram, despite legal restrictions. Underage marriages are very common according to the census data, and many girls become mothers before 15 years of age. While awareness has improved, families often conduct such marriages discreetly. The study suggests that legal reforms alone are insufficient and call for more substantial community interventions to eliminate child marriage. Mathew ( 2023 ) highlights that courts consider various factors—age, marriage duration, financial status, and standard of living—when deciding alimony. Under Section 22, interim payments can be ordered. Monthly alimony is typically 25% of the husband's salary, while lump sum settlements range from 1/5th to 1/3rd of his net worth. Monthly alimony is taxable, whereas lump sum payments are tax-exempt. Courts may also order property adjustments and settlements. According to Tharakan ( 2024 ), there are no official statistics since Muslim divorces, such as Talaq, are managed by Mahal Jamats rather than Family Courts. The government must take proactive measures to address the growing number of divorce cases, such as creating additional Family Courts to speed up the process. This would give couples legal assistance and an organized forum for effectively ending divorces. Research Gap Analysis Analyzing 13 studies has revealed several critical gaps in the existing literature on Divorce and family transitions, particularly in the context of Kerala. These gaps are outlined below: Family Transitions and Divorce in Kerala Changes in family structure over time are referred to as family transitions (Fine et al., 2023). Although this idea has been investigated in a number of settings, thorough studies on the changes that Divorce brings about in families, particularly in Kerala, are scarce. Even though divorce rates are on the rise in the state, little is known about the precise mechanics of how Divorce affects family transitions. This disparity is especially noticeable in the Muslim community, where divorce procedures and results are greatly influenced by cultural and religious customs. Undocumented Divorce Rates Among Muslims One of the most important gaps is the absence of accurate data on divorce rates among the Muslim population of Kerala. The prevalence of Talaq (Islamic Divorce) often results in Divorce within the jurisdiction of Muslim jam rather than formal legal systems. As a result, these cases are not registered in family courts, making a missing link in official divorce data. This deficiency of documented evidence obscurely obstructs the proper scale, patterns and implications of Divorce within the Muslim community, obstructing a fine understanding of the issue. Same-Sex Marriage and Divorce The evolving legal and social landscape surrounding same-sex relationships necessitates research on the divorce experiences of same-sex couples in Kerala. However, this area remains entirely overlooked in existing studies. The absence of research on same-sex marriage and Divorce leaves a critical gap in understanding how these couples navigate family transitions post-divorce, particularly in a culturally conservative setting like Kerala. Gender in Divorce Research Most of the existing studies on Divorce concentrate on women's experiences and issues, neglecting the men's experiences and concerns. This skewed gender representation fails to provide the scope for achieving a more integral understanding of the impact of Divorce on the couple. A gap needs to be filled up in this context to produce all-rounded divorce studies that encompass diverse perspectives to provide a balanced understanding of the gendered aspect of Divorce. Positive Perspectives on Divorce Most studies frame Divorce as a harmful or adverse event. However, a positive perspective on Divorce, such as personal growth, wellbeing enhancements, and improved familial relationships after Divorce, is also necessary. This would give a more balanced view to understanding the multifaceted impacts of Divorce on individuals' lives and family situations. Economic Ramifications Across Religious Communities While some studies do talk about the economic repercussions of Divorce, qualitative and quantitative research into how these ramifications can differ from one religious community to another in Kerala seems to be strikingly inadequate. Therefore, it becomes imperative to analyze in detail how religious and cultural considerations influence the economic ramifications of Divorce to properly respond to the varying experiences of individuals and their families. Multidimensional Impact on Family Structures Family structure and Divorce have to be understood from different lenses. Changes after Divorce include more complex shifts in parenting, intergenerational, and social networks. Such analysis, while looking at changes from a cultural, social, and economic perspective, will be invaluable for further discourse on family transition in Kerala. These lacunas must, therefore, be addressed while building a much more inclusive perspective of Divorce and its aftereffects on the transitions in family lives in Kerala. Further research will look into the unaccounted cases of Divorce, hidden perspectives, and the need to strike a balance between the challenges and opportunities posed by Divorce. This will provide more strength to the academic debates and enable proper policy-making along with the creation of support mechanisms specific to different communities in Kerala. Scope of Interventions To understand the long-term issues of divorce, especially in women community, the longitudinal research is most important. Because, it can measure psychological change, economical change and social transition. Therefore, longitudinal research provides this kind of changing scenario in a specific issue within a period. A gender-inclusive approach, including men centric studies is essential for an in-depth problem analysis. The court process of divorce is typically lengthy, with cases taking years to finalize. This delay has implications for remarrying plans and access to compensation, especially for women. Further, men extend financial and emotional suffering at times exploit the long process. Streamlining divorce procedures and limiting the period for legal termination would resolve such issues. Besides, creating additional family courts in Kerala, especially in high divorce-rated states, would speed up decision-making and cut pending divorce cases. Although pre-divorce counselling is practiced in legal procedures of the court as well as religious communities, same like, post-divorce counselling is also important. Because studies show that most women suffer from psychological issues after divorce, hence, formal post-divorce counselling programs in place would give emotional support, enhance mental stability, and make the transition to post-divorce life easier, especially for women Increasing awareness of the legal rights and benefits available is crucial to empowering those going through divorce. Organizations at the community level can help effectively spread this information. Community involvement and participation in legal awareness drives would assist in upholding the secular nature of the nation and fostering confidence in legal systems. There should be an integrated database to gather correct data on Muslim community divorces since Muslim communities practicing Divorce lik e Talaq do not even register family courts or government databases. One of the biggest problems divorced women face is financial insecurity, especially those of lower education and poor economic backgrounds. For this purpose, alternative livelihood opportunities must be created. Promoting the creation of small activity groups or neighborhood assistance groups (NHGs) for divorced women would have twofold purposes: providing economic independence and establishing a support system where people going through similar difficulties can find strength and empowerment in numbers. Conclusion The increasing trend of divorce rates in Kerala, which has recently been termed the "divorce capital of India," received much attention and discussion in scholarly research. Studies have explored various dimensions of Divorce, including its predictors, the impact on children's wellbeing, and interventions for divorcing couples. However, there is some imbalance in conducting research on such topics, but there is always a higher interest in Muslim divorces than those of other faiths in research studies. Remarriage or interest in remarriage among the divorced is also an understudied area. This area could be further explored with more emphasis on providing an in-depth understanding of the divorce phenomenon in Kerala. Also, whereas previous works are more concentrated on the cause of Divorce, there is a greater requirement for studies that can provide strategies and methods that would reduce its negative impact. Longitudinal studies, above all, could be helpful in revealing deeper dynamics and long-run consequences of Divorce. As divorce rates continue to rise, it is equally important to explore not only the negative aspects but also the potential positive outcomes of Divorce, as it can sometimes lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Finally, legal consciousness among divorced spouses is also something that needs consideration because it has the potential to empower people for better navigation around the complexities of Divorce. There is a lack of research on the male perspective on Divorce in the present scenario. A gender-balanced approach with men-centric studies is important for a more holistic analysis of the issue. Since Kerala has the highest rates of Divorce in India, more research-oriented studies from diverse perspectives within the Kerala context are urgent. Such endeavors will deepen our understanding of Divorce and inform policy and intervention efforts that will address its myriad challenges, especially legal institutions like family courts, religious organizations, SHGs (self-help groups), NGOs and government agencies. A systematic review like this one emphasizes the need for a deeper, more culturally embedded approach to the study of Divorce in Kerala-one that is at once rich in its detail and solution-orientated. Declarations Acknowledgment We extend our sincere gratitude to the Academic and Research Wing and the Management of GEMS Arts and Science College, Malappuram, Kerala, for their valuable support, facilities, and encouragement in the completion of this article. Conflict of Interest Statement The author declares that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this article. No financial, personal, or institutional relationships have influenced the research, analysis, or conclusions presented in this work. Funding This research received no funding from any public, private, or non-profit organization Clinical trial number Clinical trial number is not applicable. Ethics and Consent Declarations Ethics, Consent to Participate, and Consent to Publish declarations: not applicable Competing interests policy I declare that the author has no competing interests as defined by Discover, or other interests that might be perceived to influence the results and/or discussion reported in this paper. Data availability This manuscript does not report data generation or analysis. References Amato, p. R. (2010). Research on Divorce: Continuing trends and new developments. Journal of marriage and family , 72 (3), 650–666. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-6010260","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Systematic Review","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":435953773,"identity":"5370973d-9d61-4486-ac45-47791cb9c03c","order_by":0,"name":"Anas Tharakan","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA9UlEQVRIiWNgGAWjYLACxgYgwQPEH4CYjZ0YLQehWhhngLQwk6KFGWQTAyEt/LObH3/+uMMun7/n8LPHNr+2yfMxMzB++JiDW4vEnWNmEgfPJFvOONtmbpzbd9uwjZmBWXLmNjzW3EgwYzjYxmzAcJ7BTDq35zYjUAsbMy8eLfI30j9/ONhWbyB/nv2btGXPbXuCWgxu5BhIHGw7bGBwtsdMmuHH7USCWgxv5JRJnG07bmB45kyZZG/D7eQ2ZsZmvH6Ru5G++UNlW7WB3Jn0bRI//ty2nd/efPDDR3zeRwGMbWCygVj1IPCHFMWjYBSMglEwUgAAl2hTf38ux2kAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"GEMS Arts and Science College, Malappuram","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Anas","middleName":"","lastName":"Tharakan","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-02-11 20:38:14","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6010260/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6010260/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":79643411,"identity":"b9ad6c28-d215-40ee-ba62-4eb81974a33c","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-04-01 06:32:17","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":51374,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003ePRISMA flow chart.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6010260/v1/0dab1f534131cd30960bc4fc.png"},{"id":79644556,"identity":"be1a71c4-4a52-483e-87e5-61180b00eb83","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-04-01 06:48:17","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1052236,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6010260/v1/d92f8092-c716-4e5c-9937-d0b870da6837.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Trends, Impacts, and Emerging Perspectives on Divorce in Kerala- A Review Approach","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eDivorce, as a formal legal dissolution of marriage, has long been a subject of scholarly inquiry, reflecting its profound implications for individuals, families, and societies. With almost 2,000 articles published since 2000, divorce has continued to be a major topic of social science research interest over the last 20 years (Amato, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e).This sustained academic attention underscores the evolving nature of marital dissolution and its multifaceted consequences in an increasingly complex world. The impact of technological advancements along with industrialization, modernization, urbanization, and population density has been identified as a key factor contributing to the increasing complexity, impersonality of daily life and family transformation and increasing divorces in society (Vincent\u0026amp; D'Mello, 2018).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Oxford Dictionary of Sociology defines Divorce as \"the formal legal dissolution of a legally constituted marriage.\" Divorce traces its origin back to the Latin derivative, meaning \"splitting of a unit.\" In other words, Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage, emphasizing its multifaceted impact on individuals and society (Mohapatra \u0026amp; Shanmugam, 2020). These definitions underscore both the legal and social aspects of divorce, highlighting its wide-ranging effects on individuals and communities. According to Amato (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e), divorce should be viewed as one of several changes that take place over the course of a family's life cycle rather than as a singular event. This point of view illustrates the intricate and contradictory dynamics of divorce. Divorce has far-reaching consequences, including, but not limited to, psychosocial and economic issues that affect children profoundly. Therefore, it must be studied (Sarmadi \u0026amp; Khodabakhshi-Koolaee, 2023). In the Indian context, marriage and Divorce are deeply intertwined with religious and cultural traditions. Often in India, marriage is perceived as an important institution that is further strengthened by the customs and rituals that sanctify it (Ramanuja, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e; Srivastava, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e). Even so, the emphasis on the preservation of marriage is deeply rooted in the Indian culture and shows regional differences in divorce figures that were traditionally low.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to Census data (Chandramouli \u0026amp; General, 2011), India has one of the lowest divorce rates globally, with only 13 divorces per 1,000 marriages. However, states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Sikkim, and West Bengal, as well as southern states such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have reported relatively higher rates of marital dissolution. Kerala, in particular, has emerged as a study of a notable case in terms of Divorce in India. Recent studies reveal a significant increase in divorce rates in the state, dubbing it the \"capital of divorce\" (Rajasenan et al., 2022). Data indicates that approximately 75 divorce petitions are filed daily across the state's 28 family courts, reflecting a steady increase in marital dissolutions from 2016 to 2022 (Tharakan, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). This trend raises questions about the underlying social, economic and psychological factors running this change, especially in view of the strong cultural and religious traditions of Kerala around the wedding of Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite the growing incidence of Divorce in Kerala, there remains a paucity of research exploring its impacts within this specific context. At the same time, studies have examined the widespread results of Divorce, including its psychosocial and economic effects. The unique cultural, social, and legal dynamics of Kerala require a concentrated investigation. This paper seeks to address this difference by adopting a systematic review approach to synthesize the existing research on the effects of Divorce in Kerala. By doing this, it is to provide the landscape developed in the state and a wide understanding of its implications for individuals, families and society.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methodological approach","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis systematic review approach is based on the analysis of 13 research studies conducted between 2010 and 2024, which focuses on Divorce and its effects in terms of Kerala. The study follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to ensure a transparent and structured review process. A comprehensive literature discovery was conducted using major academic databases, including Scopus, Shodhganga and Google Scholars. In Kerala, keywords such as \"divorce in Kerala\", \"consequences of divorce\", \"divorce trend in Kerala,\" and \"impacts of divorce\" were used to identify relevant studies. The complete text of each article was reviewed to draw detailed information about the objectives, functioning and findings of the study. Additionally, reference lists of selected articles were examined further to identify relevant letters. The study uses a combination of primary and secondary data for analysis.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpecific inclusion criteria guided the selection of studies for this review:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies focusing on Divorce and its various effects and impacts in Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies published between January 2010 and December 2024.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies published in peer-reviewed journals or research reports.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhD theses are available in the Shodhganga repository.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExclusion criteria:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies that provide only national or international perspectives without specific insights into Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies classified as review articles.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBased on these criteria, 13 studies were selected for analysis, including 10 peer-reviewed journal articles and 3 PhD theses. These studies were selected to ensure a wide understanding of the divorce phenomenon in Kerala premise, its sociological dimensions and its versatile effects. The selection of articles for this study was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework, as illustrated in the PRISMA flowchart in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA systematic review approach was adopted to analyze selected studies. This included examining each study's objectives, sociological references, functioning and major findings. The review process was structured to ensure the rigorous and transparent synthesis of available literature. Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e summarizes 13 analyzed studies, highlighting their main findings. Selected studies have great variations in the functioning employed. Five of the 13 studies utilized a quantitative approach, employing standardized scales, self-designed structured questionnaires, and secondary data analysis. Two studies adopted a qualitative approach, using interview schedules and phenomenological analysis. In comparison, six studies employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques, such as interview schedules and self-structured questionnaires. The study included only 13 studies, primarily due to the limited availability of research on divorce from the perspective of Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe tools used for data collection across the studies included standardized scales and self-designed structured questionnaires in one quantitative study, interview schedules in six studies (including one qualitative, one quantitative, and four mixed-methods studies), secondary data analysis in three quantitative studies, phenomenological analysis in one qualitative study, and a combination of close-ended questionnaires and case studies in one quantitative study. The samples in the selected studies varied based on the research objectives. Four studies focused on divorced women, one examined abandoned women, and another investigated deserted women. One study explored adolescents from divorced families, while another included custodial parents, noncustodial parents, counsellors, advocates, and social workers. Additionally, one study analyzed married women, one centered on Muslim women, and three utilized secondary data from family court records.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis methodological diversity reflects the complexity of Divorce as a research topic and underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to understanding its impacts. By synthesizing findings from studies with varying methodologies and sample characteristics, this review aims to provide a holistic perspective, especially on the impact and effect of Divorce in Kerala, contributing to a deeper understanding of its sociodemographic and psychological dimensions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe summary of 13 studies analyzed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"10\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c10\" colnum=\"10\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStudy no\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eType of the study\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAuthors and year\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eName of the study\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLocation of the study and target population\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eObjective of the study\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMethodology\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOutcome measures used\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMajor findings\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhD thesis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMichael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eA study on psychological wellbeing and quality of life\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalappuram district, Kerala. 316 divorced women\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo study the Psychological wellbeing and Quality of Life of\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDivorced Muslim Women in Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescriptive\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003estudy, mixed methodology\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterview schedule, (Psychological wellbeing) PGWB scale (1970), WHO \u0026ndash; QOL(1996) scale, mean, standard deviation, correlation, multiple regression analysis, ANOVA\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMarital conflict and Divorce were driven by neglect, non-caring behaviour, abusive behaviours such as scolding, physical violence, neglect of daily needs, disinterest in sexual relationships, suspicious attitudes, husbands' irregular presence at home, abusive treatment, and interference from in-laws. Women faced financial struggles and emotional challenges like anxiety and poor health and were often forced into employment. Many coped through hobbies, sharing feelings, or spending time with children, though younger women showed lower psychological wellbeing. Employment post-divorce improved their quality of life.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAriplackal and\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGeorge (2014)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychological\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eComponents for Marital\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDistress and Divorce in\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNewlywed Indian\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCouples\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKannur, Kerala; 20\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003enewlywed divorced\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ecouples\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo explore the core psychological\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ereasons as to what leads to this\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ephenomenon: How do happy\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003enewlywed couples so often become\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eunhappy couples later in marriage?\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQualitative method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSemi-structured interview\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eschedule an interpretive\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ephenomenological analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(IPA) were used\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychological distress in newlywed couples, especially in sibling position and personality traits. Wives were more likely than husbands to initiate Divorce. Psychological resistance and a significant amount of stress both in the couple and their family of origin to accommodate the second-order change in the newlywed. The discrepancies in spouses' personality attributes subsequently changed happy newlywed couples into unhappy ones.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePremsingh,JG and Philip,SR.(2014)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eA Study on Increasing the Divorce Rate in Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKerala state.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo identify the reasons for Divorce and analyze divorce trends based on data from family courts\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuantitative method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study employs secondary data analysis, utilizing existing data from family court records.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDivorce can result from infidelity, abuse, addiction, financial strain, poor communication, incompatibility, and falling out of love. Other causes include cultural differences, mental health issues, lack of commitment, in-law interference, and unmet expectations. Between 2011 and 2012, family courts in Kerala saw a rising trend in divorce cases, with Thiruvananthapuram recording the highest number, followed by Kollam, Thrissur, and other districts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhD thesis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAbandoned Muslim wives Victims of early marriage\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts, Kerala. 500 abandoned Muslim wives\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo analyze the multifaceted dimensions of early marriage, including violence, abandonment, victim perceptions, awareness of exploitation, contributing factors to abandonment, and challenges faced by abandoned Muslim wives.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescriptive study, mixed method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStructured interview schedule, Socioeconomic Status Scale - S.C. Tiwari, Aditya Kumar, and Ambrish Kumar(2005), percentage analysis, chi-square test and mean analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study identifies major determinants of initial marriages in rural, lower-class Muslim families, including dowry, cultural priorities, economic strategies, plurals and parents' concerns. Early married women face sexual, physical and psychological violence, often leading to abandonment and short marriage, as a result of these harmful practices, financial conflict, health issues, psychological crisis and social stigma, inter-generated poverty and vulnerability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVasudevan et al.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(2015)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ecauses of Divorce: a descriptive study from central Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKottayam, Kerala; 60\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ecouples who are in\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ethe process of Divorce\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eand currently\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eseparated\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCauses of Divorce among the couples\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescriptive\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003estudy, mixed\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003emethodology\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePretested, semi-structured\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003einterview schedule\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdjustment problems within the extended family, alcoholism, and resulting physical abuse were the leading causes of Divorce among the couples in Kerala. More females were found to initiate proceedings for Divorce than males. The divorce rate is higher among people with a college education in both genders.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWorking paper\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJafar (2015)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatus of Muslim Women in Kerala: A Study of Female Age at Marriage in Malappuram District\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalappuram district,Kerala. 1543 females.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo analyze the impact of marriage on the education and occupation of Muslim women, with a focus on how family preferences, cultural norms, and early marriage influence their autonomy and socioeconomic status\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMixed method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuestionnaire, interview, observation, percentage analysis, one-way ANOVA\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMarriage heavily influences Muslim women's education and employment, often dictated by family preferences. Many discontinue education or jobs (except teaching) due to marital obligations, while unmarried women and Gulf wives often have higher education levels. Early marriage frequently disrupts education, reversing earlier trends where education delayed marriage. Cultural norms and community perceptions further limit women's autonomy, highlighting the need for legal and socioeconomic reforms beyond education and employment.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSaraswathy (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFactors influencing Women's attitudes towards Divorce\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePalakkad, Kerala; 231\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003emarried women\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWomen's attitude toward Divorce,\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ebetween attitude to Divorce and\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003epersonal variables\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuantitative\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003emethodology\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterview schedule\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eassociated with women's employment, spousal adjustment, and children's wellbeing. Attitude to divorce score has a high positive correlation (.000) with women's employment at 1% significance level.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMysore Marriages of Kerala: A Study on the Issues and\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConcerns of deserted women\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalappuram district, 100 respondents (75 deserted women who returned to their natal homes and 25 key informants)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo examine the consequences of Mysore Marriages on the lives of deserted women and their children\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMixed method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterview schedule\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study reveals that deserted women often face violence, financial struggles, and emotional stress, with some returning due to husbands' infidelity. Despite employment, they rely on parental support due to low earnings. Most reject reuniting with marital families and encounter legal barriers. Many prefer independence with their children, needing support in housing, livelihood, legal aid, and children's education.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhD thesis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExploring Divorce in Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEranakulam district,Kerala. 20 key informants\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e20 custodial parents\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e11 noncustodial parents and 20 adolescent children\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study examines the perceptions of adolescents, parents, and key informants on the reasons for Divorce and its effects on parenting, self, and extended family relationships. It also explores the impact on adolescents' self-concept, family and peer relationships, and academic performance.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003equalitative exploratory research design\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSemi-structured interview schedule,\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStrengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), thematic analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study found that Divorce stems from multiple factors like family interference, domestic violence, substance abuse, financial issues, and poor communication. Its effects vary: women face financial and societal challenges, men endure emotional and physical stress, and adolescents are impacted by custodial care quality. Societal stigma, especially against divorced women, worsens these outcomes, underscoring the complex role of gender and social norms.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRajasenan et al. (2022)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMuslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Act and Divorce of Muslim Women in Malappuram District\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalappuram district, Kerala. 91 divorced women\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo explore the reasons and consequences of Divorce among Muslim women in Malappuram.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMixed method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eClose-ended questionnaire, case studies, factor analysis.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study highlights the rate of increasing Divorce in Kerala, which is inspired by forced marriage, misbehaviour and awareness about rights among educated women. The main reasons include a lack of spousal support, conflicts with in-laws, and trust issues. After the department, women face psychological trauma, financial instability and social stigma, with limited awareness about legal safety, such as the Muslim Women's Act, 2019. Despite challenges, many women view Divorce as the right decision, underscoring the need for more significant support and awareness.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMathew, A (2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEconomics of marriage and breakdown: A case study of Kozhikode district in Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKozhikode district, Kerala. Sixty samples were collected through unpublished secondary data from different advocates in and around Kozhikode who dealt with divorce cases in family courts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study explores the relationship between marriage expenses, legal costs, and court-approved alimony while assessing economic suffering by gender. It also analyzes divorce rates and spending patterns across religions and identifies age groups with the highest divorce rates.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuantitative method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSecondary data analysis,\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnalysis of Variance, Mean, Standard Deviation and Correlation and ANOVA.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe analysis of marriage expenses across religions shows Muslims have the highest average expenses (892,860), followed by Christians (757,140) and Hindus (646,150), with a significant variation in all groups. The ANOVA test found no significant difference in marriage expenses among the religions (p-value\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.235). Regarding marriage and Divorce, 50% of marriages occur before 27, and 70% of divorces happen within the first 7 years. ANOVA tests for marriage duration and legal expenses revealed no significant differences. Females typically bear higher marriage and legal expenses, while males bear the cost of alimony. Correlation analysis indicated weak relationships between marriage expenses and alimony for both genders.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMon J and Shalini (2024)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003equality of life among adolescents in divorced families; a\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003equantitative analysis in Kannur district, Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKannur district, Kerala. 60 adolescents in the age category of 12\u0026ndash;19 years among the divorced families\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe primary aim of this study is to analyze the quality of life among the adolescents in divorced families\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ein Kannur district, Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescriptive research design, quantitative method.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe self-structured questionnaire, WHOQOL \u0026ndash;BREF scale.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe majority of respondents reported that their parents had divorced within the past 1\u0026ndash;2 years, and most of them now live with their mother following the Divorce. Nearly half of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their quality of life, particularly about health. Furthermore, the majority indicated a decline in their quality of life only after their parents' Divorce.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJournal article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTharakan (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnveiling Divorce Trends in Kerala: Inferences from Family Courts\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKerala state\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo explore the trends and patterns of Divorce in Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuantitative method\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c9\" namest=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study employs secondary data analysis, utilizing existing data from family court records.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrom 2016 to 2022, divorce cases in Kerala's family courts rose by 40%, from 19,233 to 26,976. Ernakulam had the highest petitions (3,536), while Wayanad had the least (538). Hindu Marriage Act cases dominated (16,860 in 2022), with fewer under the Muslim Marriage Act. In 2022, an average of 75 daily filings (three divorces per hour) were recorded, signalling exponential growth and the need for deeper analysis of marital stability in Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eA systematic review approach was used to summarize the findings of 13 studies within the divorce framework. Three studies analyzed family court records to examine the patterns and trends of Divorce in Kerala. Two studies examined the psychological health of divorced women, while two more examined Muslim women who had been left or abandoned. Another research study examined the quality of life for teenagers in divorced households. One study explored Divorce more broadly, while two others looked at the reasons and effects of Divorce based on the opinions of divorced women. Additionally, one study analyzed the impact of marriage on the education and occupation of Muslim women, and another focused on married women's attitudes toward Divorce.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGeographical Focus\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe studies were conducted in various districts across Kerala, with two focusing on the entire state. A significant number of studies, five in total, were concentrated in Malappuram district. Kannur district accounted for three studies, while Kozhikode had two. Additionally, one study each was conducted in Ernakulam, Palakkad, and Kottayam districts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDemographic Dimensions\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExamining the sociodemographic characteristics linked to Divorce, such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, education, and employment, and comprehending how these aspects are represented in the research is crucial before evaluating the data from different studies.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge is a crucial factor in both marriage and Divorce, with early marriage often leading to marriage breakdown and Divorce (Michael, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e; Ariplackal \u0026amp; George, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Sindhu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Rajasenan et al., 2022; Mathew A, 2023). Mathew A. (2023) found that most breakups happen early in marriage, and the chance of separation decreases the longer a couple stays married. (Michael, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) identified higher age for marriage include having fewer children, achieving self-dependence, completing studies, and reaching physical maturity. The study found that the mean age at marriage among respondents was 15.1 years, with a significant number married at or below the age of 14 and others between 15 and 17 years. This highlights the considerably lower marriage age among poor Muslim girls in rural Malabar, sometimes as early as 12 years, despite Kerala's higher overall average marriage age compared to the rest of India (Sindhu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). The divorce rate among individuals over 50 years was found to be relatively low, at 1.3% for females and 3.2% for males (Vasudevan et al., 2015).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurthermore, the majority of Muslim women reported that marriage led to discontinuing their education and employment, prompting a suggestion to reconsider the legal age of marriage (Jafar, 2015). The mean age of deserted women was 33 years, suggesting that desertion tends to occur within a few years of marriage (Jabir, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, Rajasenan et al. (2022) found that Divorce was more common among young and middle-aged women, with most respondents being married before turning 23. Despite the fact that such weddings are prohibited in India, a startlingly high percentage of these ladies were married between the ages of 12 and 17. The study made clear that early marriage has a significant effect on the academic and professional development of Muslim divorced women in particular.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurthermore, Age difference emerged as another critical factor contributing to Divorce. The study found that quick divorces were more common among couples with an age difference of 6 to 11 years who had lived together for 1 to 5 years, accounting for 64.2% of such cases. In contrast, divorces among couples with an age difference of 0 to 5 years who had lived together for the same duration constituted 20.7% of the cases.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearch highlights significant gender dynamics in Divorce. According to Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e), husbands predominantly initiate divorce proceedings. However, studies by Ariplackal and George (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), and Rajasena et al. (2022) indicate a growing trend of women initiating Divorce, especially in Kerala, where increased awareness of women's rights and strong family support systems encourage this shift. According to Vasudevan et al. (2015), both men and women with college degrees had greater divorce rates. Saraswathy (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e) highlighted that women's opinions toward Divorce are influenced by a number of circumstances, including employment, marital adjustment, and the wellness of the children. In order to reduce the likelihood of Divorce, the study emphasizes the significance of shared family obligations. According to Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), Divorce has complex repercussions for both sexes, while women have more difficulties. Patriarchal norms intensify women's post-divorce struggles, making them more vulnerable and less able to recover. Divorce for women often leads to dual stigmatization\u0026mdash;as both women and divorcees. Mathew (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) further examines the gender-based economic implications of Divorce. Women face high marriage expenses, mainly due to gold and jewellery, which later compensate them for marital breakdown. Legal expenses have a greater burden for women, but alimony puts significant financial stress on men who should support pre-husbands or wives and children. In Muslims, lifelong alimony is often paid in the same transaction. These studies collectively explain how gender shapes the initiation, experience and economic results of Divorce, which reflect wide social norms and inequalities.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eReligion\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eReligion plays a crucial role in Divorce in different religions. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) highlights that many Mapilla Muslim women experience Divorce through Mutalaq yet demonstrate higher psychological wellbeing and life satisfaction post-divorce compared to women from other religious backgrounds, suggesting cultural resilience. Ariplackal and George (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) emphasize that India's diverse spiritual traditions shape marital norms, with Hinduism viewing marriage as a sacred, lifelong bond, Islam treating Nikah as a civil contract permitting Divorce, and Christianity considering marriage an indissoluble sacrament. Indian law, through the Family Court Act (1984), prioritizes harmony and family secrecy in marital disputes. Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) said that spirituality and prayer are powerful mechanisms for individuals dealing with the emotional challenges of Divorce, offering a sense of solitude, power and divine support. Rajasenan et al. (2022) further elaborate that Islamic marriage ensures financial security for women through Mahr and details structured divorce modes. Notably, six studies focused exclusively on Muslim respondents.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmployment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe relationship between employment and Divorce is complex, influenced by factors like financial stability, work-life balance, and individual stress. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) noted that 43.7% of respondents in a divorce study were private employees, reflecting the challenges faced by those balancing employment and marital commitments, and Almost three-fourths of the respondents (71.2%) felt that they were forced to do employment after Divorce. Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) found that unemployment was common among divorcees, with some women in low-income jobs like housemaids or casual labourers relying heavily on extended family for support. Similarly, Vasudevan et al. (2015) reported that half of the respondents were unemployed. Jafar (2015) observed that while homemakers dominate married and divorced groups, a small portion of Gulf wives and unmarried women hold salaried positions. Non-migrant women engage more in agricultural labour and MGNREGS jobs, while higher education and remittances have reduced manual labour participation. Saraswathy (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e) and Rajasthan et al. (2022) emphasized a strong connection between women's employment and their attitudes toward Divorce. Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) highlighted that while 64% of women engage in labour for survival, barriers such as inadequate family support or skills persist. Rajasenon et al. (2022) revealed that 45.1% of Muslim divorced women in Malabar are mainly working in low-paid private sector jobs. Despite achieving some financial freedom, these women face livelihood insecurity. Interestingly, education disintegration during marriage often started after being divided later, reflecting a social tendency where women's education is temporarily preferred during marriage talks, but marriage Later is reduced.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eEducation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEducation plays an important role in shaping marital dynamics and affecting divorce rates. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) mentioned that about half of the respondents had completed secondary education, highlighting a basic level of educational attainment. Ariprackel and George (2014) observed that modern education has changed the expectations of women in marriage, promoted desires for equality and challenged traditional patriarchal norms. This change has increased marital conflicts in cases where partners have traditional views. Studies like Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) and Vasudevan et al. (2015) revealed that while in Kerala, the literacy rate among women is high, the dropout rate remains a barrier to higher education, in which early marriage is an important obstacle. Educational attainment affects the age of marriage; illiterate women marry small.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn contrast, higher educational attainment among Gulf wives and unmarried women in Malappuram, as highlighted by Jafar (2015), suggests that education is linked to delayed marriage and greater independence. Rajasenan et al. (2022) found that while most Muslim divorced women in Malabar have only secondary education, there is a growing trend among younger women completing higher education, signalling improved prospects for economic empowerment. These insights demonstrate education's dual role as both a stabilizing factor in marriages and a potential driver of marital dissolution when it empowers women to challenge inequitable or abusive situations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocio- economic status\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMany studies point out the socio-economic factors and cultural practices affecting Divorce in women in Kerala. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) exhibits the financial problems faced by divorced women, many of whom live in rented housing with low income levels and limited financial support. Lack of maintenance from Ex-husbands often leaves them dependent on local self-help groups, charitable organizations and NGOs. addition to this maintaining child custody, property loss and social stigma contribute to their struggles. Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) explained how marriage and wife abandonment among low economic-level rural Muslims in Malabar. These women often return to their parents' homes, revealing the affected families' socioeconomic vulnerability. Economic pressure and cultural criteria are in an initial marriage position as a strategy to deal with poverty. Contrasting these findings, Vasudevan et al. (2015) report higher divorce rates among middle and upper socioeconomic groups, where 79.1% of divorce seekers lived in extended family setups. Socioeconomic status emerges as a critical factor influencing marital dissolution. Jafar (2015) and Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) emphasize the economic results of Divorce, explaining how women reach from their matrimonial status for education and employment. While 64% of livelihood wages are engaged in labour, employment obstacles persist due to limited family assistance, skills and education. The lack of ownership of productive assets exacerbates their insecurity, with many relying on parental support post-divorce. Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) discusses shifting family roles from economic survival to emotional fulfilment alongside societal changes that reduce the stigma around Divorce divorce. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, righteousness, and childbirth in marriage significantly affect the risk of Divorce. Rajasenon et al. (2022) Identification of early marriage, often inspired by family preference, forcibly as a primary cause of marriage. Factors contributing include poverty, sibling marriage pressure, delayed fear of marriage and financial concerns about future grooms.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinally, Mathew (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) draws attention to the financial burden that Divorce causes, pointing out that although marriage is seen as a lavish occasion in Kerala, its dissolution upsets the state of the economy. Marriage costs are frequently excluded from alimony rulings, which puts additional financial strain on separating couples, particularly male partners.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eReasons for Divorce\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are different reasons for the increasing divorce rates in Kerala. Thadathil and Sriram (2019) list the primary reasons behind the divorces as Harassment from the husband and husband's family, domestic violence, dowry, substance abuse, communication gap, Infidelity and extramarital relationships, Lack of physical intimacy and psychological issues. The type of marriage, whether arranged or love marriage, also determines the initiative for Divorce (Mitra \u0026amp; Gayathri, 2015). Incompatibility, apathy, lack of communication and loss of mutual trust are some of the reasons for Divorce, and in most cases, illiterate women face a financial crisis after Divorce (Kaneez,2015). A systematic review of the examined papers highlighted several common causes of Divorce, which are discussed in the coming section.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge deference and early marriage\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearch highlights age disparity and early marriage as significant factors contributing to Divorce. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) found that 69.3% of respondents identified age differences between partners as a reason for marital breakdown, while 34.5% attributed early marriages to familial poverty. Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) connected early marriage to marital violence, including sexual violence and wife abandonment. Rajasenan et al. (2022) emphasized that the age difference between 6 and 11 years is a determining factor, in which 64.2% divorce is with Divorce in couples living together for 1 to 5 years. In contrast, the age difference between 0 to 5 years in the same period was responsible for only 20.7% divorce, underlining the complex intercourse between age dynamics and marital stability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eDowry\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMichael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) highlights in the study that a significant number of respondents revealed that their parents provided dowry as per the demands of the bridegroom's family. A notable portion of husbands utilized the dowry and associated assets entirely. In several cases, women sought their parents' assistance to reclaim these properties but faced resistance and conflict. Many respondents endured abusive treatment when attempting to recover their dowry and belongings after the dissolution of the marriage. These patterns highlight the persistent role of dowry disputes as a contributing factor to marital breakdown and subsequent divorces. Similarly, Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) found that dowry issues have played little (7%) role in desertion or return to home.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eAbuse and Harassment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearch indicates that abuse and cruelty are important factors for Divorce. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) states that many wives experience various forms of ill-treatment, including physical violence, continuous scolding, neglect of daily needs and lack of interest in marital intimacy. Additionally, strained relationships with in-laws, particularly mistreatment by mothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, further contribute to marital discord. Vasudevan et al. (2022) emphasize that cruelty and abuse from husbands are primary reasons for Divorce. Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) also notes that many women face domestic violence, including insults, Harassment, and physical abuse, which ultimately lead to the breakdown of marriages. Collectively, these studies highlight the deep-rooted impact of abuse and emotional distress in marital dissolution.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of care and support from husband\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe reasons for marital disharmony and Divorce, as highlighted by Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) and Rajasena et al. (2022) who emphasize the husband's role in the relationship. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) found that many respondents cited the husband's irregular presence at home as a key factor, while others pointed to his lack of care and the interference of possessive parents. Similarly, Rajasena et al. (2022) identified the husband's lack of care as a significant reason for Divorce. These findings collectively suggest that emotional neglect, physical absence, and external familial influences contribute significantly to marital breakdown. The husband's failure to provide an emotional and physical presence, coupled with the over-involvement of his parents, creates a strained marital environment, ultimately leading to Divorce.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eDisinterest in sexual relations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMichael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) and Premsingh and Philip (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) highlight the important factors for marital discord and marriage. They emphasize that the husband's apathy in sexual relations, neglect in meeting daily needs, and suspected behaviour towards his wife are important reasons for the crisis. These issues create emotional and physical distances between partners and reduce faith and mutual support in the relationship. When a husband withdraws from intimacy, fails to fulfil the fundamental responsibilities, and displays mistrust, it promotes an atmosphere of insecurity and dissatisfaction, eventually leading to marital breakdown.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychological issues\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies have shown that psychiatric disorders of a spouse, personality traits, and suspicious behaviour are significant factors contributing to marital problems and Divorce (Ariplackal \u0026amp; George, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Vasudevan et al., 2015; Premsingh \u0026amp; Philip, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) emphasizes that suspicious behaviour toward his wife is a significant cause of distress.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eSubstance abuse\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlcoholism among husbands has been identified as a significant factor influencing women's decision to initiate Divorce in Kerala (Ariplackal \u0026amp; George, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Vasudevan et al., 2015). Beyond just causing problems with one's own health, alcoholism also contributes to financial instability, domestic violence, and general family distress, all of which can result in the dissolution of a marriage (Vasudevan et al., 2015). Furthermore, research highlights that substance abuse, in general, is one of the major causes of Divorce (Aneesh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Premsingh \u0026amp; Philip, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), emphasizing its detrimental impact on marital relationships and family stability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eInfidelity and extramarital relationship\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdultery and infidelity have been identified as primary causes of Divorce in Kerala (Vasudevan et al., 2015; Premsingh \u0026amp; Philip, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) further highlights that 32.3% of women who returned to their parental homes cited their husband's illicit relationships as a significant reason, finding it difficult to accept. Similarly, Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) emphasizes that extramarital affairs play a significant role in driving Divorce.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003ePoor communication\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOne major reason for Divorce is the communication gap between husband and wife. (Rajasenan et al. 2022; Premsingh \u0026amp; Philip, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Mathew,2023)highlight communication gaps between spouses as a primary cause of Divorce, particularly among women. Similarly, Vasudevan et al. (2015) identify desertion and neglect as significant factors behind Divorce and that affecting both men and women.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eDomestic violence\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhysical abuse and domestic violence are significant causes of marriage breakdown, as noted in various studies. Vasudevan et al. (2015), Premsingh \u0026amp; Philip (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), and Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) emphasize that abuse in all forms\u0026mdash;physical, sexual, and emotional\u0026mdash;along with criminal behaviour toward wives contribute to Divorce. Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) further highlights the prevalence of violence, reporting that 32.4% of female respondents experienced insults, Harassment, and physical assault within their marriages.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImpacts of Divorce\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychological problems\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearch highlights the important psychological crisis experienced by continuous Divorce, causing primary mental health to be the primary concern. Michael (2023) notes that emotional breakdown is common, and many individuals experience mildly severe crises. The copying mechanisms include spending time with children, engaging in religious activities, chasing hobbies and consuming media. However, anxiety about the future, financial insecurity, health concerns and children's goodness are prevalent stress. Emotional reactions such as shock, anxiety, despair, anger and sleep disturbances are often reported.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies have identified a range of psychological issues among divorced individuals, including depression, anxiety, stress, loneliness, social interaction anxiety, and heightened anger levels (Ariplackal \u0026amp; George, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Jabir, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; Aneesh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). According to Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), psychological distress is pervasive and manifests as emotional turmoil, low self-esteem, and guilt. Compared to people who married later, those who married very young (12\u0026ndash;14 years old) typically have more severe problems. Additionally, older divorcees report higher levels of psychological distress than younger ones, indicating that both early marriage and advanced age are associated with increased emotional and mental health difficulties. Rajasenan et al. (2022) have given importance to further mental health aspects of Divorce. Depression, anger, anxiety, insomnia and other psychological manifestations have been included. In such cases, in order to address the symptoms and overcome the challenge, medication must be provided; therefore, psychological intervention strategies along with support shall be needed so that the distressed individual may have an opportunity for the reconstruction of wellbeing.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocial impacts\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to Rajasena et al.(2022), Divorce has serious social implications, especially for women. After divorce, women often face strained relationships with friends and family, social isolation, and exclusion from public events.The pervasive stigma in Ernakulam, where patriarchal norms intensify emotional distress and social scrutiny, especially for women and adolescents, is highlighted by Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). In his discussion of social alienation, Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) points out that divorced people frequently face humiliation and strained relationships as a result of being left out of decisions made in the home and at social events. Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) highlights the harsh treatment of divorced women in India, who face stigma, ill-treatment, and a lack of support. Unlike widows, they are often denied fundamental rights and unfairly labelled. While some studies indicate changing attitudes toward Divorce in parts of India (Vasudevan et al., 2015; Saraswathy, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e), the overall societal perception remains challenging. The studies collectively call for public education, anti-stigma campaigns, and better support systems to promote acceptance and resilience among divorced individuals.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eEconomic difficulties\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDivorced women from rural, lower-class Muslim families in Malabar face severe financial difficulties (Sindhu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), primarily due to low education and limited income-generating skills, affecting basic needs like food, healthcare, and children's education. Early marriage exacerbates economic struggles, contributing to the feminization of poverty (Saraswathy, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e; Jabir, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; Aneesh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). According to Rajasenan et al. (2022), non-working divorced women, especially those with child custody, face severe hardships and often rely on their natal families when husbands fail to provide maintenance. While working women manage better, financial insecurity persists. Many struggle to reclaim assets like jewellery and gifts, and maintenance during the Iddah period is often denied, highlighting the need for stronger legal and social support.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdditionally, discontinued education or employment, post-marriage hampers their economic independence. Although marriage is a costly affair in Kerala, with no significant religious differences in expenditures, its economic benefits are disrupted by Divorce, leaving men burdened with alimony. At the same time, women face long-term financial insecurity (Mathew, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect on Children\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearch on the effects of parental Divorce on children and adolescents highlights significant long-term challenges. Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) emphasizes that post-divorce adjustment largely depends on the custodial parent's ability to provide consistent support, discipline, and care. Adequate custody arrangements can mitigate the impact of poverty and parental absence, though no single model suits all families. Financial instability is a significant concern, as noted by Jabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) and Sindhu (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), who found that 89.3% of respondents faced economic hardships, with additional difficulties in child-rearing. Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) reported that 46% of Muslim respondents lacked proper accommodation, leading them to send their children to *Yatheem Khanas* (orphanages), with 36.8% doing so due to insufficient paternal support. Mon J and Shalini (2024) found that most children of divorced parents live with their mothers, with nearly half reporting a decline in their health-related quality of life after the Divorce. These studies collectively illustrate the multifaceted challenges children face post-divorce, spanning financial difficulties, custody issues, and overall wellbeing.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eDivorce trend\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e(Premsingh \u0026amp; Philip, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) Highlight some statistics regarding Divorce in Kerala; as per the state government figures, between January 2011 and January 2012, the family courts in the state received 44,236 cases. The divorce cases of the last five years give one an idea of where the state is headed. The number was 8,456 in 2005-'06, 9,775 in 2006-'07, 9,937 in 2007-'08, 11,194 in 2008-'09, 11,600 in 2009- '10 and 24,815 in 2010-'11, Thiruvananthapuram, the capital, leads with 6,000 cases. Kollam comes second (4,243), Thrissur (4,063), Kozhikode (4,008), Malappuram (3,934), Ernakulam (3,712), Kottayam (2,880), Pathanamthitta (2,044), Alappuzha (2,361), Idukki (1,161), Kasargod (987), and Wayanad (341). Ariplackal and George (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) highlight that Divorce remains a social taboo in India, with a significantly low rate compared to Western countries\u0026mdash;only 1.1% compared to 54.8% in the U.S. Rural areas report even lower divorce rates. Data from Indidivorce (2012) and the 2001 Census indicate that 0.32% of India's population was divorced or separated, with a higher proportion of women.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRajasena et al. (2022) and Jacob \u0026amp; Chattopadhyay (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e) highlight that India has the lowest divorce rate globally, with 13 cases per 1,000 marriages. Census data (2011) indicate that divorces are more common in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Sikkim, West Bengal, and the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala, known for its high social development, has the highest divorce rate in India, with an increasing trend despite the establishment of family courts post-2005. Kannur, Palakkad, and Kozhikode had high rates of Divorce in 2019, whereas Wayanad district has a low rate compared to other districts of Kerala. In Malappuram, a Muslim-majority district, many divorces occur outside the court system through agreements. The enactment of the Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Act (2019) led to a slight decline in court-registered Muslim divorces. However, the overall divorce rate in Kerala continues to rise, aligning with global trends. Data limitations on informal divorces hinder comprehensive analysis. Tharakan (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) reports recent divorce statistics in Kerala, a 40% rise in divorce cases in Kerala's family courts from 2016 to 2022, increasing from 19,233 to 26,976. Ernakulam recorded the highest number of cases (3,536), followed by Trivandrum and Kollam, while Wayanad, Kasargode, and Idukki had the lowest. The Hindu Marriage Act accounted for the majority of divorces (16,860 in 2022), followed by the Indian Divorce Act (Christian), with the Special Marriage Act having the least. Despite Malappuram's sizeable Muslim population, divorces under the Muslim Marriage Act were relatively low. One of the reasons behind this phenomenon is that Muslims practice divorce methods like Talaq, which are not documented in family courts. On average, 75 divorce petitions were filed daily in Kerala in 2022, indicating a rising trend.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLegal aspects\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, criminalizes Triple Talaq to safeguard Muslim women's rights. Rajasenan et al. (2022) found that only 50.5% of respondents were aware of the Act, and 61.5% faced Triple Talaq, mainly before its enactment. Many still rely on religious institutions for Divorce and financial matters, highlighting the need for legal awareness. While the Act's long-term impact is uncertain, it remains crucial to prevent exploitation and ensure a structured legal divorce process. Another concern is that Divorce, especially without mutual consent, is a lengthy and stressful legal process. While its completion brings relief, divorced women often face psychological and financial struggles, along with societal stigma, making social reintegration difficult. Judicial proceedings do not contribute directly to the increasing rate of divorce in Kerala, but an analysis of the number of pending cases for divorce on the rise annually is an important thing. The process of divorce by courts takes years. As a result, remarriage plans become difficult without a divorce certificate. Aneesh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) and Michael (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) emphasize that court procedures impact the children of divorced couples and highlight the need for legal awareness. Family Courts can play a crucial role by strengthening divorce counselling and expanding the role of marriage counsellors to prevent Divorce and support couples during and after the process.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eJabir (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) recommends strict legal measures to protect deserted married women, mandatory registration of interstate marriages and marital assets, compulsory FIR registration in desertion cases, and legal aid cells at district headquarters for dowry, Divorce, maintenance, and child custody support. According to Jafar (2015), child marriage continues to be rampant in Kerala, especially in Malappuram, despite legal restrictions. Underage marriages are very common according to the census data, and many girls become mothers before 15 years of age. While awareness has improved, families often conduct such marriages discreetly. The study suggests that legal reforms alone are insufficient and call for more substantial community interventions to eliminate child marriage. Mathew (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) highlights that courts consider various factors\u0026mdash;age, marriage duration, financial status, and standard of living\u0026mdash;when deciding alimony. Under Section 22, interim payments can be ordered. Monthly alimony is typically 25% of the husband's salary, while lump sum settlements range from 1/5th to 1/3rd of his net worth. Monthly alimony is taxable, whereas lump sum payments are tax-exempt. Courts may also order property adjustments and settlements. According to Tharakan (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e), there are no official statistics since Muslim divorces, such as Talaq, are managed by Mahal Jamats rather than Family Courts. The government must take proactive measures to address the growing number of divorce cases, such as creating additional Family Courts to speed up the process. This would give couples legal assistance and an organized forum for effectively ending divorces.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eResearch Gap Analysis\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnalyzing 13 studies has revealed several critical gaps in the existing literature on Divorce and family transitions, particularly in the context of Kerala. These gaps are outlined below:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eFamily Transitions and Divorce in Kerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChanges in family structure over time are referred to as family transitions (Fine et al., 2023). Although this idea has been investigated in a number of settings, thorough studies on the changes that Divorce brings about in families, particularly in Kerala, are scarce. Even though divorce rates are on the rise in the state, little is known about the precise mechanics of how Divorce affects family transitions. This disparity is especially noticeable in the Muslim community, where divorce procedures and results are greatly influenced by cultural and religious customs.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eUndocumented Divorce Rates Among Muslims\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOne of the most important gaps is the absence of accurate data on divorce rates among the Muslim population of Kerala. The prevalence of Talaq (Islamic Divorce) often results in Divorce within the jurisdiction of Muslim jam rather than formal legal systems. As a result, these cases are not registered in family courts, making a missing link in official divorce data. This deficiency of documented evidence obscurely obstructs the proper scale, patterns and implications of Divorce within the Muslim community, obstructing a fine understanding of the issue.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eSame-Sex Marriage and Divorce\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe evolving legal and social landscape surrounding same-sex relationships necessitates research on the divorce experiences of same-sex couples in Kerala. However, this area remains entirely overlooked in existing studies. The absence of research on same-sex marriage and Divorce leaves a critical gap in understanding how these couples navigate family transitions post-divorce, particularly in a culturally conservative setting like Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender in Divorce Research\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMost of the existing studies on Divorce concentrate on women's experiences and issues, neglecting the men's experiences and concerns. This skewed gender representation fails to provide the scope for achieving a more integral understanding of the impact of Divorce on the couple. A gap needs to be filled up in this context to produce all-rounded divorce studies that encompass diverse perspectives to provide a balanced understanding of the gendered aspect of Divorce.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003ePositive Perspectives on Divorce\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMost studies frame Divorce as a harmful or adverse event. However, a positive perspective on Divorce, such as personal growth, wellbeing enhancements, and improved familial relationships after Divorce, is also necessary. This would give a more balanced view to understanding the multifaceted impacts of Divorce on individuals' lives and family situations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eEconomic Ramifications Across Religious Communities\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhile some studies do talk about the economic repercussions of Divorce, qualitative and quantitative research into how these ramifications can differ from one religious community to another in Kerala seems to be strikingly inadequate. Therefore, it becomes imperative to analyze in detail how religious and cultural considerations influence the economic ramifications of Divorce to properly respond to the varying experiences of individuals and their families.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eMultidimensional Impact on Family Structures\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFamily structure and Divorce have to be understood from different lenses. Changes after Divorce include more complex shifts in parenting, intergenerational, and social networks. Such analysis, while looking at changes from a cultural, social, and economic perspective, will be invaluable for further discourse on family transition in Kerala.\u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese lacunas must, therefore, be addressed while building a much more inclusive perspective of Divorce and its aftereffects on the transitions in family lives in Kerala. Further research will look into the unaccounted cases of Divorce, hidden perspectives, and the need to strike a balance between the challenges and opportunities posed by Divorce. This will provide more strength to the academic debates and enable proper policy-making along with the creation of support mechanisms specific to different communities in Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eScope of Interventions\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo understand the long-term issues of divorce, especially in women community, the longitudinal research is most important. Because, it can measure psychological change, economical change and social transition. Therefore, longitudinal research provides this kind of changing scenario in a specific issue within a period. A gender-inclusive approach, including men centric studies is essential for an in-depth problem analysis.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe court process of divorce is typically lengthy, with cases taking years to finalize. This delay has implications for remarrying plans and access to compensation, especially for women. Further, men extend financial and emotional suffering at times exploit the long process. Streamlining divorce procedures and limiting the period for legal termination would resolve such issues. Besides, creating additional family courts in Kerala, especially in high divorce-rated states, would speed up decision-making and cut pending divorce cases.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough pre-divorce counselling is practiced in legal procedures of the court as well as religious communities, same like, post-divorce counselling is also important. Because studies show that most women suffer from psychological issues after divorce, hence, formal post-divorce counselling programs in place would give emotional support, enhance mental stability, and make the transition to post-divorce life easier, especially for women Increasing awareness of the legal rights and benefits available is crucial to empowering those going through divorce. Organizations at the community level can help effectively spread this information. Community involvement and participation in legal awareness drives would assist in upholding the secular nature of the nation and fostering confidence in legal systems. There should be an integrated database to gather correct data on Muslim community divorces since Muslim communities practicing Divorce lik\u003cem\u003ee Talaq\u003c/em\u003e do not even register family courts or government databases.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOne of the biggest problems divorced women face is financial insecurity, especially those of lower education and poor economic backgrounds. For this purpose, alternative livelihood opportunities must be created. Promoting the creation of small activity groups or neighborhood assistance groups (NHGs) for divorced women would have twofold purposes: providing economic independence and establishing a support system where people going through similar difficulties can find strength and empowerment in numbers.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe increasing trend of divorce rates in Kerala, which has recently been termed the \"divorce capital of India,\" received much attention and discussion in scholarly research. Studies have explored various dimensions of Divorce, including its predictors, the impact on children's wellbeing, and interventions for divorcing couples. However, there is some imbalance in conducting research on such topics, but there is always a higher interest in Muslim divorces than those of other faiths in research studies. Remarriage or interest in remarriage among the divorced is also an understudied area. This area could be further explored with more emphasis on providing an in-depth understanding of the divorce phenomenon in Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlso, whereas previous works are more concentrated on the cause of Divorce, there is a greater requirement for studies that can provide strategies and methods that would reduce its negative impact. Longitudinal studies, above all, could be helpful in revealing deeper dynamics and long-run consequences of Divorce. As divorce rates continue to rise, it is equally important to explore not only the negative aspects but also the potential positive outcomes of Divorce, as it can sometimes lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Finally, legal consciousness among divorced spouses is also something that needs consideration because it has the potential to empower people for better navigation around the complexities of Divorce.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere is a lack of research on the male perspective on Divorce in the present scenario. A gender-balanced approach with men-centric studies is important for a more holistic analysis of the issue. Since Kerala has the highest rates of Divorce in India, more research-oriented studies from diverse perspectives within the Kerala context are urgent. Such endeavors will deepen our understanding of Divorce and inform policy and intervention efforts that will address its myriad challenges, especially legal institutions like family courts, religious organizations, SHGs (self-help groups), NGOs and government agencies. A systematic review like this one emphasizes the need for a deeper, more culturally embedded approach to the study of Divorce in Kerala-one that is at once rich in its detail and solution-orientated.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgment\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe extend our sincere gratitude to the Academic and Research Wing and the Management of GEMS Arts and Science College, Malappuram, Kerala, for their valuable support, facilities, and encouragement in the completion of this article.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConflict of Interest Statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author declares that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this article. No financial, personal, or institutional relationships have influenced the research, analysis, or conclusions presented in this work.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research received no funding from any public, private, or non-profit organization\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClinical trial number\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClinical trial number is not applicable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics and Consent Declarations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEthics, Consent to Participate, and Consent to Publish declarations: not applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests policy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI declare that the author has no competing interests as defined by Discover, or other interests that might be perceived to influence the results and/or discussion reported in this paper.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis manuscript does not report data generation or analysis.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmato, p. R. (2010). Research on Divorce: Continuing trends and new developments. \u003cem\u003eJournal of marriage and family\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e72\u003c/em\u003e(3), 650\u0026ndash;666. Https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3737.2010.00723.x\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAneesh, T.(2019). Exploring Divorce in Kerala: tata institute of social sciences. Http://hdl.handle.net/10603/256470\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAriplackal, r., \u0026amp; George, t. S. (2014). Psychological components for marital distress and Divorce in newlywed Indian couples. Journal of Divorce \u0026amp; remarriage, 56, 1\u0026ndash;24. Doi:10.1080/10502556.2014.972210\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChandramouli, c., and general, r. (2011). Census of India 2011. Provisional population Totals. New Delhi: Government of India, 409\u0026ndash;413.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eD Rajasenan, Anas tharakan, \u0026amp; Rajeev b. (2023). 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Marriage dissolution in India: Evidence from Census 2011. Economic and Political Weekly, 51(29), 25-27.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKaneez, S. (2015). Perception of subjective well-being among divorce women: A comparative study of Hindus and Muslims. Pakistan Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 13(2), 67\u0026ndash;71.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eK, Jafar. (2015). \u0026apos;Status of Muslim women in Kerala: a study of female age at marriage in Malappuram district\u0026apos;. Hyderabad social development papers. 3. 2.-45.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaitra, S., \u0026amp; Gayathri, K. R. (2015). Divorce trends and its implications for children\u0026rsquo;s wellbeing: A study of family court in Mumbai. Final Report, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMathew, n. A. (2023). 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(2023). Psychological and social consequences of divorce emphasis on children wellbeing: a systematic review. Preventive counseling, 4(2), 1\u0026ndash;34. Doi: 10.22098/jpc.2023.12578.1162\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSindhu, c.a. (2014). Abandoned Muslim wives victims of early marriage: Mahatma Gandhi University. Http://hdl.handle.net/10603/99611\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSrivastava, v. K. (2010). Socioeconomic characteristics of tribal communities that call themselves Hindu. New Delhi: Indian Institute of Dalit studies.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThadathil, a., \u0026amp; sriram, s. (2019). Divorce, families and adolescents in India: a review of research. Journal of divorce \u0026amp;amp; remarriage, 61(1), 1\u0026ndash;21. Https://doi.org/10.1080/10502556.2019.1586226\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTharakan, a.(2024). Unveiling divorce trends in Kerala: inferences from family courts. South India journal of social sciences, 22(2), 159-165. Https://doi.org/10.62656/sijss.v22i2.308\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVasudevan, b., devi, g. M., bhaskar, a., areekal, b., lucas, a., \u0026amp; chintha, c. (2015). Causes of Divorce: A descriptive study from central Kerala. Journal of evolution of medical and dental sciences, 4(20), 3418\u0026ndash;3426. Doi:10.14260/jemds\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-global-society","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Global Society](https://www.springer.com/journal/44282)","snPcode":"44282","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44282/3","title":"Discover Global Society","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Divorce in Kerala, marital dissolution, divorce impacts","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6010260/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6010260/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThis study aims to comprehensively understand the effects and impact of divorces in Kerala state through a systematic review approach. In India, the divorce rate is very low. However, Kerala has the most significant number of divorces. According to data from family courts, around 75 divorces occur in Kerala every single day. In this context, it becomes increasingly important to compile and study various research works on divorces in Kerala to gain a deeper understanding of the situation. The study used the systematic review approach based on an in-depth analysis of 13 research studies conducted between 2010 and 2024, all focusing on Divorce and its multifaceted impacts within the context of Kerala. The study synthesizes findings on demographic dimensions, reasons for divorce, and its impacts, including psycho-social and economic effects, as well as its impact on children. The study also analyzing divorce trends in religious and legal aspects, highlighting that employment is the most influential demographic factor contributing to divorce. Kerala's rising divorce rate calls for balanced, inclusive research addressing gaps like remarriage, legal awareness, and male perspectives while exploring both negative and positive outcomes. Studies should focus on longitudinal and solution-oriented approaches to better understand and mitigate divorce-related challenges. Comprehensive research will inform effective policies and interventions for addressing divorce complexities in Kerala.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Trends, Impacts, and Emerging Perspectives on Divorce in Kerala- A Review Approach","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-04-01 06:32:12","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6010260/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2025-04-25T11:49:58+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-04-17T12:01:19+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"227320653513016753731602351256473385595","date":"2025-04-17T11:50:14+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-04-17T11:37:32+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"47022961403215467656678102787824439611","date":"2025-04-17T11:29:50+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2025-04-17T09:52:47+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-04-17T09:52:31+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-04-17T09:02:30+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Discover Global Society","date":"2025-03-30T15:27:43+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-global-society","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Global Society](https://www.springer.com/journal/44282)","snPcode":"44282","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44282/3","title":"Discover Global Society","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"1f58ba14-a88e-4222-83f3-ea8b53e9fa14","owner":[],"postedDate":"April 1st, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-05-28T10:53:30+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-04-01 06:32:12","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6010260","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6010260","identity":"rs-6010260","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}