Ravanshenasi & Din

This study was conducted to explain the underlying factors of emotional divorce, emphasizing the moderating role of spiritual elements. The present research employed a qualitative approach, utilizing descriptive phenomenology. Participants included 20 individuals (12 men and 8 women) selected through purposive sampling with maximum variation, all of whom had lived experience of emotional divorce. Data were gathered via in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step thematic analysis method. Data analysis led to the identification of seven core themes as primary underlying factors of emotional divorce: lack of premarital understanding, fundamental incompatibility of values and goals, economic pressures and associated stress, inappropriate interference by others, lack of communication and conflict-resolution skills, neglect of emotional and psychological needs, and ethical-behavioral issues. Furthermore, the role of spiritual elements was identified as a dual-faceted variable—acting both as a preventive factor and, under specific conditions, a facilitating factor—primarily serving a moderating function. The findings emphasize the importance of a comprehensive perspective and attention to authentic spiritual foundations in designing preventive interventions, couples counseling programs, and premarital education.