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Divorce costs both socially and economically
STILLWATER, Okla. – Research shows divorce and its direct and indirect economic consequences cost the U.S. nearly $33.3 billion annually.
A recently released study shows in Oklahoma divorce costs taxpayers more than $400 million a year.
Ron Cox, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service family science specialist, said the estimate of $33.3 billion does not account for the billions of dollars in personal expenditures or the endless mental and emotional costs to the individuals, families and children – who often have the most damaging effects of divorce.
Divorce costs state and federal government roughly $125 million in direct and indirect costs per 1million population. The total bill of $33.3 equates to $312 per household.
“However, it’s important to be aware of those who have chosen to end their relationship,” Cox said. “Research proposes approximately 30 percent of the divorces in the U.S. involve material relationships with a high degree of conflict. In these situations, for those involved divorce is often in their best interest.”
Results from a study in the Journal of Family and Economic Issues suggest divorce has several direct and indirect economic costs, absorbed by not only individuals, but by communities and the state and federal government.
“There are programs available which address economic, marital and life skills for families with financial worries,” Cox said. “Research shows that premarital and marriage education programs are effective in producing direct and indirect short-term gains in interpersonal skills and general relationship quality.”
Cox said with the knowledge we have of the costs of divorce coupled with high divorce rates, policymakers and government officials should consider the influence of premarital and marital education as a cost effective prevention measure, as well as a means of reinforcing relationships that will ultimately impact the quality of life for Oklahomans.
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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
Katie L. Reim
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications
Services
140 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
405-744-6792 (Phone)
405-744-5739 (Fax)
katie.reim@okstate.edu
