The danger of an unmourned marriage dissolution is that psychologically the marriage continues for years. This is another step that, along with mourning, signifies detachment from the marriage. It involves reclaiming or establishing a new sense of identity. For example, in a long term marriage, a partners sense of identity is tied to his or her spouse and to the marriage. Think about what it means to for a woman to give up her name in order to carry her husbands name.
Similar issues arise for men as they take on the status of husband.
Do you think of yourself as a couple. Are you a person or Mr. As you proceed through the divorce process, you will find that these issues may arise, calling upon you to become a separate person with your own identity. This can be a daunting task and exciting opportunity. A part of reclaiming oneself is resolving and containing passions.