Just the Two of Us: The Ups and Downs of an Empty-Nest

Abstract

The empty-nest phase of marital relationships is characterized as the period of time when the last child leaves the home, whether to attend college, join the military, move in with a romantic partner, or move out independently (Harkins, 1978; Junge & Maya, 1985). For parents this can often be a time of newfound freedom as the constraints of childrearing are lessened and the opportunities for more personal time and time spent with one’s spouse increase. However, research suggests that the empty-nest relationship is also riddled with frustrations and challenges. Thus, this case study will highlight the transition to the empty-nest phase of marriage by exploring positive experiences (the empty-nest experience) and the darker side of this time for spouses (the empty-nest syndrome). Questions for discussion are presented for consideration.