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Faith Therapy: Divorce after Prison Term


Faith Therapy: Divorce after Prison Term


My Husband Just Got Out of Prison, Can't Help with Finances, and I Want Out...


By DR. PAMELA THOMPSON

Q: My husband began stealing from his employer, was caught, and went to prison for six months. He’s just been released, has no job and cannot financially contribute to this household — all of which makes me contemplate divorce. Can I leave him while he’s down on his luck?
 
A: Ultimately, you are not responsible for the poor choices he made in the scenario you describe, but I’ll bet your contemplation of divorce began well before his current joblessness. 

Ask yourself this question: “If he were to suddenly be able to contribute financially to the household, would that alone renew my commitment to stay married?” If the answer is no, then the joblessness is only a handy excuse, and a more frank discussion about the future of your life together is in order. Issues of dishonesty, distrust, humiliation and immorality are likely the larger issues rather than his unemployment.


Be honest with yourself and your husband as you both assess the foundation upon which your marriage is built and weigh the options of moving forward or not. Carefully reflect upon the consistency of his efforts to change and make your decision accordingly. 

Pamela Thompson, Psy. D., is the owner of Building Bridges to Better Lives, P.C., in south Atlanta. She works together with a group of psychologists at a life and executive coaching firm known as The Novem Group, novemgroup.com. Answers provided by this column are no substitute for therapy.




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