Final answer:
The long-term effects of divorce on well-being are multifaceted, with different impacts on men and women's health, and profound effects on children, especially those from lower-conflict homes. Living arrangements post-divorce are significant for children's adjustment, and stepfamilies do not necessarily reduce stress.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the long-term effects of divorce on well-being, it's important to recognize that the impact can differ based on various factors, including gender and the presence of children. Research suggests that divorce can significantly affect men's and women's physical and mental health differently, and the effects on children's well-being are complex. The idea that women are less likely than men to experience a sharp reduction in living standards after divorce may not fully capture the nuances of the economic and emotional impacts. People who were happily married before divorce may struggle with adjustment, but the influence on physical or mental health is not exclusively worse for women or men, as personal circumstances vary greatly.
Children, in particular, may experience confusion, fear, and a sense of responsibility for the divorce. They can be impacted negatively by the stress of the divorce process, especially if they come from lower-conflict homes. Proximity to parents post-divorce is crucial; for example, living arrangements that include both parents can be beneficial in reducing aggression in boys and improving responsibility in girls. Nevertheless, the establishment of stepfamilies might not alleviate stress levels for children despite possible financial stability gains.