Why Do So Many People File for Divorce in Illinois When Their Last Child Leaves Home? 

 Posted on January 31, 2022 in Divorce

After a couple’s last child moves out of the family home, the couple will often experience something known as an “empty nest syndrome.” While many parents frequently look forward to the day that they will reclaim some of their time and their space without the challenges of raising young children, the same parents are often surprised by how blue they feel once their children are actually gone. 

Without the demands of young children requiring their constant focus, many spouses begin reflecting on their lives from a new perspective. With a better understanding of the time that has passed and the time that remains to them, empty nesters will often reassess their career, their location, and even their relationship. If you are a recent empty nester, know that you are not alone. Knowing why other Illinois couples choose to get divorced during this time may help you create a plan for your own future. 

Concerns About Underage Children Keep Many Couples Together

Even if a relationship is not ideal, many couples stay together because the thought of getting divorced with young children is a major headache. Not only does it introduce factors like complicated parenting time schedules and child support payments, but spouses who are divorced must also continue dealing with each other vis a vis their children. Many couples reach the end of their child-rearing years and see divorce as a far less complex option than it was in the past. 

A Shift in Long-Term Perspective Can Trigger Major Changes

The departure of children from the marital home often coincides with a parent moving into their 50s and 60s. Whether a couple is happy together or not, for many people this period triggers serious introspection and sometimes a reassessment of major choices. Many empty nesters feel a renewed sense of freedom and individuality, and realize that their personality and wishes clash with their spouse’s. Ultimately, for some couples, this leads to divorce. 

Unanticipated Health or Financial Issues

While a couple is raising children, issues like poor financial management or significant health problems may be pushed aside in light of the ongoing responsibilities of everyday childrearing. But once the children are out of the home, these and other problems between spouses can become more problematic. Spouses may decide they no longer want to deal with gambling, reckless spending, a partner who refuses to care for their physical health, or any other serious issues for the rest of their lives. 

Contact a Naperville, IL Divorce Attorney 

Dealing with divorce after your last child has left home is very different from getting divorced with young children. For help understanding the implications of divorce and creating a roadmap for the divorce process, consider getting the help of an experienced DuPage County divorce attorney with Calabrese Associates, P.C.. We will work hard to understand your needs and will advocate passionately for you. Call us today at 630-393-3111. 

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=3900000&SeqEnd=5400000