It is well documented that women experience more stress than do men prior to the decision to divorce, but that women experience less stress, and better adjustment in general, than do men after divorce. Three possible reasons for why women fare better than men have been suggested. First, women are more attuned to relationships, and relational difficulties, than are men. Women are likely to notice marital problems which cause stress and to feel relief when such problems end. Second, women are more likely to rely on social support systems and help from others than are men. This may help to cushion the woman's emotional stress after divorce. Finally, women have much to gain in terms of self-esteem when they divorce and add new roles to their lives. Self-esteem may serve as a safeguard against anxiety and the effects of stressors. Although gender differences in reactions to divorce have been well established, future research might examine individual differences within groups. More research is needed to investigate the relation between self-esteem and divorce. The exact relation between self-esteem and initiation of, or involvement in, divorce is not yet known. (Author/NB)