Author: Florida Women's Law Group
Date: Dec 07 2021
Date: Dec 07 2021
Top 5 Reasons for Divorce
It is a well-known statistic that nearly 50% of marriages end in divorce. Marriage’s ebb and flow, go through rough patches, tragedy and tough times. But why are people divorcing? Couples divorce for all sorts of reasons and in most cases, it is more than one. In our history of practicing family law, we have seen five common reasons for divorce. You may recognize some of these problems in your own marriage and knowing that they can likely lead to divorce can help you try to fix it.
1. Infidelity
The number reason for divorce is infidelity. Most spouse’s find it hard to trust again after the other has cheated. Whether it was a one-time thing or an ongoing affair, it is difficult to rebuild after the betrayal. Infidelity, in most cases, is the result of other problems in the marriage such as anger, resentment or lack of intimacy.
2. Money and Finances
Financial problems can lead to huge issues in a marriage. There are several ways in which money can cause problems in a marriage. Couples can have different views about spending and saving that leads to conflict. If one spouse works and the other stays home or if one makes significantly more than the other, it can lead to a volatile power dynamic that can cause stress on the marriage. Along the same line, if one spouse comes into the marriage with sizeable money it can also lead to power struggles and feelings of insecurity. When one spouse controls all the money and puts restrictions on the other, also called financial abuse, that leads to conflict and stress. Money is involved in so many aspects of a marriage and can lead to divorce when couples are not on the same page.
3. Communication
When couples cannot communicate effectively with one another it can lead to anger, frustration and animosity. Marriage is not easy and there will be times of anger, sadness and happiness, when couples are unable to discuss issues constructively it leads to a breakdown in the marriage.
Couples may find that they have the same argument over and over or disagreements with no resolution that result in harsh words and resentment. When there is not healthy communication both spouses feel as if they are not being heard or appreciated. Poor communication is a big reason that marriages fall apart.
4. Addiction or Abuse
If one spouse struggles with addiction it creates turmoil and an unhealthy environment for everyone in the household. Addiction comes in many forms that are toxic to a marriage. Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, pornography and uncontrollable spending are just a few that wreak havoc on a home. If the addicted spouse is willing and able to get help the marriage may survive but in most cases it controls their life in such an unhealthy manner that it is difficult for a marriage to compete. The addiction leads to lies, sneakiness and dangerous behavior that is unsafe and betrays the marriage that ultimately leads to divorce.
Abuse is also a leading cause of divorce. Abuse can be physical, emotional, verbal or financial. Abuse not only effects the spouse but the children and anyone else in the household. It is not uncommon for domestic abuse and addiction to go together. Staying in an abusive relationship is dangerous and unhealthy for the victim and the children. Victims of abuse should seek a safe place and immediate assistance.
5. Lack of Intimacy
Physical intimacy can take a backseat in any marriage, especially as kids enter the picture and daily life gets busier and busier. Sex is an essential part of a marriage, more so for men than women, and provides a physical connection between couples. Intimacy is about more than just sex and is a way spouses show they care and are interested in one another.
Intimacy involves feeling connected with one another. It can be shown by spending time with one another, listening to each other, holding hands, kisses on the cheek or even a phone call to check in. Without physical or emotional intimacy, a partner can feel rejected and confused. The marriage moves into a roommate relationship and feelings of being unloved and unsupported.
Divorce usually happens after a long period of contemplation and trying to make it work. It is often not just one reason but a compilation of many reasons. Every marriage is unique and faces its own set of issues and it’s up to each couple to make it work. If you are unhappy in your marriage and considering divorce, we can discuss your options and provide guidance for you, should you choose to move forward.
At Florida Women’s Law Group, we have the experience, resources and skills to provide you with empathetic and compassionate legal service. We are here to provide legal advice and the assistance you may need throughout your divorce. We represent women just like you to help you get through this and onto a better and happier life.
