As Langlais and Frye-Cox (2026) found in a recent study of mothers’ post-divorce dating transitions, most periods of adjustment in and out of a romantic relationship are associated with stress and short dips in well-being. An emotionally mature adult has both the capacity to introspect and a track record of effective emotional regulation before and after separation. More likely, post-divorce or separation can illuminate relationship skills deficits including clear communication, seeking understanding, emotional validation, and boundary setting or reinforcement. The good news is that emotionally healthy dating is possible, regardless of your previous marital status or relationship history. Lastly, one of the most important elements of post-divorce dating is that it extends identity reconstruction beyond what’s possible individually.