Misconceptions about marriage as an indicator of rising divorce rates in Kirkuk Governorate

Abstract

This study aims to understand the role of misconceptions about marriage in explaining the significant rise in divorce rates in Kirkuk Governorate in recent years. The study is based on the fundamental premise that unrealistic beliefs about the nature of married life contribute to generating idealized expectations that are inconsistent with reality, leading to marital conflicts that may end in separation. The research employed a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing a standardized questionnaire distributed to married and engaged individuals from diverse social backgrounds in the governorate. Predictive statistical analysis particularly multiple regression analysis was employed to assess the predictive power of these misconceptions regarding divorce rates.Preliminary results indicate that the most prevalent misconceptions are related to excessive idealism, the expectation of perpetual happiness, and the belief that marriage is a cure for psychological or social problems. The results also revealed statistically significant differences between men and women, and between different educational levels, in the degree to which these misconceptions are held. The analysis indicated a positive correlation between misconceptions and high divorce rates, as well as a significant predictive power of these misconceptions within a statistical model that explains a considerable portion of the variance in the phenomenon. The study reveals the importance of integrating the cognitive dimension into understanding marital stability and highlights the need for preventative guidance programs targeting young people before marriage to correct misconceptions and promote a realistic understanding of the nature of marital relationships. The findings provide a scientific basis that policymakers, social institutions, and guidance providers can use to formulate effective interventions to reduce the rising divorce rates in the local community.