Exploring the Lived Experiences of Divorced Women in Gilgit-Baltistan: A Case Study of Causes, Consequences, and Coping Strategies within Sociocultural Contexts

Abstract

Divorce is an emerging social issue in Gilgit-Baltistan, where changing family structures, cultural expectations, and socio-economic pressures intersect women’s lives. This study presents a sociological analysis of divorce among females through a qualitative case study of 13 divorced women across 05 different districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. The research explores the underlying causes, social consequences, and coping mechanisms associated with divorce, situating the phenomenon within the region’s cultural and structural framework. Data were collected using interview guide to get the personal case histories, focusing on variables such as educational background, economic status, reasons for marital breakdown, family dynamics, and post-divorce experiences. Qualitative analysis revealed that the most common causes of divorce included financial insecurity, domestic violence, lack of compatibility, and interference from extended family. Social stigma and community labeling emerged as major challenges faced by divorced women, often leading to psychological distress, social isolation, and limited opportunities for remarriage. However, some participants demonstrated resilience through economic independence, educational advancement, and support from natal families. The study highlights that divorce in Gilgit-Baltistan is not merely a personal matter, but a deep social phenomenon influenced by patriarchy, economic structures, and traditional norms. The findings underscore the urgent need for awareness campaigns, counseling services, and supportive policies to protect the rights and dignity of divorced women. This paper contributes to the sociological understanding of gender, family, and social change in peripheral regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, offering recommendations for policymakers, social institutions, and community leaders to reduce stigma and provide sustainable support mechanisms for women navigating post-divorce realities.