Divorce and the Extroverted Personality

If you are an extroverted personality type going through a divorce, you may find the process more difficult than someone who is more introverted. This is because extroverts are typically social creatures who thrive on human interaction. When extroverts are going through a divorce, they may feel isolated and alone because they no longer have their spouse to lean on, or they may feel as if they’ve suddenly been cut off from their normal social network of other married couples. Extroverts also find themselves in a situation where being too outgoing or too social could backfire on them during the litigation, so they may feel like their divorce is holding them hostage, which makes it difficult to move forward.

The Negative Effects of Being Extroverted During a Divorce

During a divorce, extroverts may find themselves withdrawn and not wanting to participate in activities that they normally enjoy. This is because being around other people can be taxing when you are going through something as emotionally charged as a divorce. Additionally, extroverts may have difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks because their minds are always racing, especially when your attorney has warned you about the consequences of being in social situations that could be easily construed to look like something they aren’t. For example, if an extrovert spends too much time in mixed company, and his spouse is having him followed by a private investigator, it could be made to look like he is having an affair. Whether it’s true or not, the implication can create some unintended and expensive consequences within the divorce litigation process.

Another negative effect of being extroverted during a divorce is that you may find yourself seeking validation from others. Since you are used to having your spouse as your primary source of emotional support, you may find yourself turning to your friends and family for reassurance during this time, something you’re not used to doing, and they may not be comfortable with. This can be taxing on your relationships and can cause people to pull away from you. Your friends and family will want to support you, but if they aren’t used to seeing you, the extrovert who is always so confident, suddenly so vulnerable, it can create some challenging new dynamics to work around. Additionally, seeking validation from others can prevent you from truly moving on from your divorce in a healthy manner. It’s important to be self-aware if this begins to happen to you and seek out a referral to a skilled therapist in your area to help you manage these new and very different emotions.

The Positive Effects of Being Extroverted During a Divorce

Although there are some negative effects of being extroverted during a divorce, there are also some positive effects. One positive effect is that being extroverted can help you get through the grieving process more quickly. This is because talking about your emotions and sharing your experiences with others can help you to process them and move on. This support can come in many forms, such as talking to friends and family, attending support groups, or seeking professional counseling. Studies have shown that social support can be beneficial for the grieving process, as it can help you to feel understood and less alone.

Additionally, being extroverted during a divorce can help you to develop new relationships once the divorce is over. This is especially beneficial if your divorce has caused you to lose contact with some of your friends or family members. Developing new relationships can help you to feel more connected and supported, which can be vital during times of major life transitions like divorce brings about for most people. Additionally, starting new relationships can provide you with a fresh perspective and a new outlet for your extroverted personality.

Final Thoughts

If you are an extroverted personality type going through a divorce, there are clearly both positive and negative effects that you may experience. On the one hand, being extroverted can help you to get through the grieving process more quickly by being open with others and talking through your emotions freely on a regular basis. Ultimately, it is up to you how you want to handle the challenges and benefits of being extroverted while going through a divorce. If you find that the negative effects are outweighing the positive ones, it may be beneficial to seek professional help so that you can learn to cope in a healthy way and not put your legal case in any unintended jeopardy.

If you and your spouse are considering divorce, don’t make any decisions about how to proceed before talking with a trusted attorney in your area. Without discussing your situation with an attorney, your agreement may not be what you want or what is beneficial to your future. If you’re in South Carolina, it’s important to contact an experienced family court attorney like J. Benjamin Stevens today to discuss your specific situation. Even if you aren’t in South Carolina, Mr. Stevens is happy to offer referrals to a well-qualified attorney located in your state.

If you find yourself facing the prospect of a separation, divorce, alimony, support, or other financial issues, you need the help of an experienced South Carolina family law attorney to guide you through the difficult process. Ben Stevens is a Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and is a Board Certified Family Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He has the experience to help guide you through the most complicated family law issues. You are invited to contact our office at (864) 598-9172 or SCFamilyLaw@offitkurman.com to schedule an appointment.

Related Articles by Mr. Stevens:

• The Introverted Spouse and Divorce
• How to Help a Friend Going through a Divorce: 5 Tips for BFFs
• 5 Actionable Steps to Better Prepare for a Divorce