Fear of Repeat Failure, Not Custody, Top Reason for Divorced Mothers in Bahrain to Avoid Remarriage: Mediator

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Yaser Khamis, a certified mediator from the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, has shed light on the significant challenges faced by divorced women with custody of their children who are considering remarriage. Based on his experience and a survey he conducted, Khamis identifies several key factors contributing to their reluctance.

Fear of Repeated Marital Failure
Khamis stressed that the most prevalent reason for divorced mothers to avoid remarriage is the fear of repeating a failed marriage. His survey suggests this is the primary concern for a significant portion of respondents (57.4%). This finding contradicts the common assumption that the desire to retain custody is the sole or primary deterrent.

Prioritising Children's Well-being
Many divorced mothers prioritise their children's needs above their own, often placing their personal desires, including remarriage, on hold. "This dedication to their children's welfare significantly impacts their decision-making process," he told the Daily Tribune, adding: "The societal perception of a mother potentially abandoning her children for a new marriage creates considerable pressure and can act as a significant barrier to remarriage. This is further compounded by the fact that men are often less inclined to pursue women with children from previous relationships."

Practical Challenges of Remarriage
Moreover, remarriage with existing children presents a range of practical difficulties. "These include the potential for conflict in gaining children's acceptance of a new spouse, clashes of parental interests, and concerns about future childbearing. Additionally, potential suitors are often older or have health issues, making them less appealing to some women," he further explained.

Financial Implications
Khamis indicated that government assistance programmes for single mothers with custody can also influence the decision. "Remarriage often leads to the termination of these benefits, creating a financial disincentive," he pointed out.

Meanwhile, Khamis underlined that family and friends, particularly unmarried friends, can significantly impact a divorced mother's decision-making process. "In times of transition, the influence of our closest circles can be both a guiding light and a source of confusion," Khamis concluded.

It's worth noting that Khamis' survey covered approximately 130 Bahraini men and women, offering valuable insight into the complex factors influencing the remarriage decisions of divorced mothers in Bahrain.