According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 40-50% of first marriages end in divorce. The divorce rate for second marriages is even higher, with approximately 60-67% of second marriages ending in divorce.” It is clear that divorce is a common loss in our society and one that is often accompanied by conflict, struggle, grief, and confusion. On the other hand, divorce can also be a growth opportunity if the disorienting and painful “wobble” that it causes in our lives is processed and re-narrated. In this module, learners will learn about the autoethnographic method in re-storying the divorce journey. Our workshop is not limited to the perspectives of those in heterosexual relationships and applies to those with LGTBQ+ identities. The session is applicable to those who were officially married or partnered without a legal contract but in a committed relationship.
Autoethnography is a writing approach that reflects on personal experience using theoretical frameworks and existing research to make meaning, engage readers, and contribute meaningfully to the literature on a particular topic. Although this qualitative research methodology is now well-established with many published books and articles – and a peer-review journal in the field (JOAE) – writing one’s story of loss with the right balance of personal narrative and philosophical integration remains challenging. This presentation and writing workshop will also cover briefly Lengelle and Meijers’ “Transformation through writing” model that explains how successful (re)storying takes place combining both affective and cognitive dimensions and training the observer position. It also explains the concept of “wobbles” which are moments in life that are often the impetus for learning.
This module will invite learners to learn about autoethnography both theoretically and experientially through writing exercises. The practices and conversation will in part be inspired by the presenters’ personal stories of loss through divorce and bereavement. The aim of this module will be to have learners gain knowledge about how to write a successful autoethnography of loss, focusing on the importance of the work being: evocative, well-structured, philosophically rigorous, ethical, and emotionally salient. Those participating can also learn more about how they may write an autoethnography for publication. This training is for those who want to write their stories of loss and transition and/or are interested in the methodology.
