An Exploratory Study of the Collaborative Divorce Process from the Perspective of Collaborative Professionals

Abstract

Divorce is becoming a societal norm, with approximately 40% of marriage in Canada ending in divorce (Douglas, 2008). The conflict arising from divorce is pervasive and affects the entire family, with long-term detrimental impacts on children. There is a need for interventions in the divorce process that would reduce conflict and increase family members’ wellbeing. This study explores collaborative divorce (CD), a non-adversarial option for families. There is a dearth of literature regarding CD. Thus, this qualitative study used a transcendental phenomenological approach to provide an in depth understanding of CD as it is experienced by collaborative professionals, including lawyers, financial specialists, and mental health professionals, who have participated in CD cases. Data was collected through interviews of nine (9) participants and was analyzed using NVivo 12 Software. Study findings identified six overarching themes: process is the foundation of CD, collaborative professional’s community, right person for the right job, highest version of ourselves, common challenges, and better than the traditional approach. This study contributes to the gap in research regarding the full team approach to CD and will contribute to research regarding the ways in which social workers can assist families to transition through divorce in the healthiest way possible, while upholding the values of social work practice.