It is no secret that divorce evokes many complicated emotions. Even when spouses decide to pursue a divorce through mediation, they still experience a wide range of emotions. After all, the end of a marriage can be incredibly stressful and anxiety-inducing.
It is unhealthy to deny and overlook the emotional stages of divorce, but divorcing spouses should also be careful. These complicated emotions can easily prevent mediation from being a productive process for either spouse.
Here is an overview of some ways emotions can affect the mediation process:
1. Emotional attachments to property can cause disputes
This is one of the most common mistakes that individuals can make when it comes to property division. It is common for human beings to feel emotional attachments to certain property. The most common example is the family home, since families make memories and raise their children there.
These emotional attachments make it difficult to part with certain assets, and that often only increases the chances of a property dispute.
2. Emotions can also cloud the decision-making process
In mediation, spouses have the power to negotiate and make decisions for their family’s future after divorce. When individuals struggle to set aside their emotions during negotiations, they risk:
- Putting their long-term needs in jeopardy
- Not weighing the pros and cons of each decision
- Making individuals settle for an unfair divorce agreement
Thinking logically about the legal process of divorce can be challenging, but it is often critical.
3. Disputes and difficult decisions can prolong the process
Mediation is often a less expensive and quicker route to divorce than taking matters to court. Letting emotions reign during mediation can counteract these benefits and others that mediation offers.
When emotions lead to lengthy disputes or decisions, the mediation process might take much longer than expected. This often only results in increased stress levels for both spouses and their family.
Emotions do play an important role, but individuals must manage them
It is important to note that emotions are a critical aspect of any divorce or family law issue. Emotions can even help individuals understand what they want and need out of a divorce settlement.
However, individuals must find ways to manage their emotions to ensure they do not interfere with the mediation process.