An Assessment of the Magnitude of Divorce and Associated Factors in Selected Woredas of Illubabor and Buno Bedelle Zones, Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

Currently, the case of divorce is everywhere in the community and its magnitude is increasing at an alarming rate. The increasing rate of divorce negatively affects the wellbeing of the society, and therefore, its adverse effect would be reflected in the building of a strong nation/state. The main objective of this study was to assess the magnitude and associated factors of divorce in the selected Woredas located in Illubabor and Bunno Bedelle Zones. To carry out this study, a qualitative approach and secondary sources of data were employed. The data collected through interviews and secondary sources were analyzed by thematic analysis and descriptive methods. After analysis, the result showed the increasing rate of divorce cases from year to year. The major causal factors for divorce were found to be economic dependency rather than interdependency, lack of regular source of income to sustain a marriage, addictive behaviors (khat and alcohol), external pressure (from family and peer), poor preparation for marriage and intolerance of religious and interest differences. Since the case was worsening, the government should work cooperatively with civil societies on the root factors to minimize the rate of divorce.