Sociological theory view on divorce - Feminism

Do feminists believe the family is in decline?

No, they believe the family is changing

Why do feminists say divorce is desirable?

It shows that women are breaking free from the oppression of the patriarchal nuclear family

How does divorce link with economic independence?

Women are now economically independent compared to the past therefore they can leave empty shell marriages and not be dependent on husbands wages

What do Thornes and Collard (1979) say about women’s expections which have lead to divorce?

Women expect more from men and therefore they petition more for divorce and women use divorce to escape marriages where their husbands fail to live up to their high expectations

What does Hart (1976) believe an increase in divorce is a reaction to?

Frustration that many working wives feel if they are expected to perform a dual burden by their husbands

AO3 of feminist view - New Right

NR criticises them as they believe divorce undermines the nuclear family as it results in young boys lacking a male role model and women not fulfilling expressive roles