"Gray divorce refers to couples 50 years and older who are ending their marriage. Research indicates that the divorce rate for this population in the U.S. has doubled since 1990 and is expected to continue to rise. Often, adult children of these divorcing parents feel ignored and unheard but still expected to cope with a situation they are in no way prepared for."
"I listened to a young man's voice on my therapy office voicemail. "Hello, my name is Alexander. My dentist told me I should see you, and you could help me." His voice caught in his throat. "Ugh, I'm sorry. This is, ugh. I don't know what to say. Please call me when you can. Thank you." Soon after, Alexander*, 23, sat on the love seat diagonal to me."
Gray divorce affects couples aged 50 and older and has doubled in the U.S. since 1990, with rates projected to rise. Adult children of gray divorce commonly feel ignored, unheard, and unprepared for parental separation. Emotional consequences include isolation, confusion, and silent struggle. Therapeutic interventions, including supportive psychotherapy, use of therapy animals, and experiential assignments like film-based reflections, can help adult children process grief and develop coping skills. Professional support, family communication, and targeted interventions can reduce pain, foster healing, and build resilience in adult children navigating late-life parental divorce.
Read at Psychology Today
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