Coping Strategies among Generation Z Young Adults with Divorced Parents: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Parental divorce can create stressful circumstances that require young adults to navigate practical challenges and emotional responses. This study examines the coping strategies employed by Generation Z young adults whose parents are divorced. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research involved six purposively selected informants born between 1998 and 2003. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, non-participant observation, and documentation, and analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that informants employed both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies. Problem-focused coping involved addressing manageable aspects of their circumstances, making personal decisions, and seeking social support. All six informants reported receiving support from their social networks. Meanwhile, emotion-focused coping included emotional expression, distraction, gradual acceptance, positive reappraisal, and temporary distancing from stressful situations. Although positive reappraisal helped informants develop more constructive perspectives on their circumstances, it did not necessarily resolve their ongoing emotional difficulties. The study highlights the coexistence of problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies in the experiences of Generation Z young adults with divorced parents, demonstrating that adaptive coping responses can occur alongside persistent emotional challenges. These findings emphasize the importance of social work interventions that recognize individual strengths, respect diverse coping preferences, and facilitate access to appropriate support systems. However, the study is limited by its small sample size and reliance on retrospective accounts, meaning that the findings are context-specific and cannot be generalized to a broader population.