Harden's family frequently moved because of her father's job, living in Japan, Germany, Greece, California, and Maryland. One of Harden's brothers is named Thaddeus, as is her former husband.
Harden, one of five children, was born in La Jolla, California, the daughter of Texas natives Beverly (née Bushfield), a housewife, and Thad Harold Harden, who was an officer in the United States Navy.
