Citation

Cole PM, Johnson K. Fam. Bus. Rev. 2007; 20(3): 185-198.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1741-6248.2007.00093.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

It is a commonly held belief that divorce “kills” the family business, especially when copreneurs divorce or separate. Yet there are examples of copreneurs who have successfully continued to work together postdivorce. However, to date, there have been no studies or theories developed regarding successful, postdivorce copreneurs. This grounded theory study examines successful postdivorce copreneurs and proposes a model that can help advisors navigate the many potential pitfalls a divorcing couple can experience. This study finds that copreneurs who have a great deal of trust in one another can continue to work together postdivorce. Emotional connection, compartmentalization, synergy, commitment to the business, and positive gender issues also contribute to the success of the business and the business relationship.