The Relationship Between Self-Esteem, Interpersonal Relationships, and Academic Achievement in Adults whose Parents Divorced During Their Childhood

Purpose: To further understand the effects of divorce not only in childhood but throughout different parts of one's life span. Methods: An online questionnaire was conducted with 50 adults, who have experienced parental divorce during their childhood (0-17 years old), and are currently over the age of eighteen. Data was collected through convenience sampling and SPSS was used for quantitative data analysis. Results: The results indicated romantic relationships were the strongest correlate of self-esteem and showed a positive association. There was no significant correlation between most recent GPA and self-esteem scores. In addition, there was no significant correlation between GPA following the divorce and the highest level of education reported by the respondents. Discussion and Implications: In this study the researchers found that respondents who were satisfied with their interpersonal relationships reported higher self-esteem. Also, there was no indication that GPA after divorce impacted their level of education achievement. This information shows human connection and informal supports are protective factors in an individual's level of self-worth. Through this knowledge Social Work clinicians will be able to take into account how parental divorce may impact an individual's self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and academic achievement throughout their adulthood. Therefore, clinicians will be able to make more appropriate assessments and treatment plans. Keywords: Divorce, Childhood, Self-Esteem, Interpersonal Relationships, Academic Achievement