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The Causes and Consequences of Divorce Among Immigrant Women: The Influence of Marital Adjustment, Marital Trajectories, and Sociodemographic Factors

Huang Y, Liu P, Chang Y, Yang H · 29 Sept 2026

Abstract

Abstract Background Divorce among immigrant women in Taiwan has become an increasingly important public health issue due to the instability of transnational marriages and the limited social support available to this population. This study examined the sociodemographic, marital adjustment, and marital trajectory factors associated with divorce among immigrant women in Taiwan. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between June and October 2022. A total of 360 immigrant women who had experienced marital transitions were recruited through social welfare organizations across Taiwan using proportional allocation sampling. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires assessing sociodemographic characteristics, marital adjustment, and marital trajectories. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with divorce. Results Poor relationships with husbands (AOR = 2.50, 95% CI = 1.35–4.65) and with members of the husband’s family (AOR = 4.08, 95% CI = 2.34–7.09) were strongly associated with divorce. Immigrant women whose natal families were aware of their marital status had higher odds of divorce (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.33–3.33). Child custody difficulties, lack of alimony, and children’s participation in after-school tutoring were also significantly associated with divorce. In contrast, the use of nongovernmental resources was associated with lower odds of divorce (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.33–0.80). Sociodemographic factors, including residential region, age, housing ownership, citizenship status, and spouses’ educational attainment, were also related to divorce. Conclusions Divorce among immigrant women is influenced by multidimensional factors, particularly marital adjustment and family interpersonal relationships. External resource utilization appears to reflect coping strategies following divorce. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening family support systems and providing accessible social and legal resources for immigrant women experiencing marital difficulties.