If your marriage is going through a rough patch, you may wonder if it is the beginning of the end or a minor blip in the road. Taking a look at why other couples divorce cannot tell you what to do, yet it may provide some pointers.
A recent study attempted to shed light on the matter. While limited by the small sample size, it throws up some interesting data.
Most couples gave several reasons for their divorce
When the study asked people why their marriage broke down, these are the top five answers they gave. Usually there is more than one factor at play:
- 75% Lack of commitment: Fairytales stop at the point the couple marries. They do not mention the enormous amount of work and dedication it takes to ensure you are happy ever after.
- 60% Unfaithfulness: Once your spouse breaks your trust on one issue, you may wonder what else they are concealing.
- 58% Excessive conflict: While peace and harmony may seem boring, arguing about every little thing soon becomes draining.
- 45% Marrying too young: How you define too young is personal and has changed through history. Many couples who married young are discovering they are not too old to divorce. The advantage of marrying and raising kids in your 20s is that when they leave home, you are still in your 50s.
- 36% Money issues: Feeling you cannot spend your money how you like can feel like a huge restriction on your freedom. Money differences can soon lead to arguments, or secrecy to avoid the arguments.
If you are nodding your head in agreement with several of the above factors, it may be time to have a frank discussion with your spouse. Sometimes a divorce is the best option for both parties, and putting it off may be delaying the inevitable.
