Top 10 Reasons for Divorce
The CDC estimates the rate of marriages in the United States as 7 per 1,000 of the general population and the rate of divorce as 3.5 per 1,000. Just as people fall in love for different reasons, couples divorce for different reasons. Here are the 10 top common reasons for divorce.
Infidelity
“…I promise to be faithful to you…” Infidelity is cited as the most common reason for divorce and the cause of nearly one third of all divorces in the United States. A spouse may be unfaithful consistently during an extramarital affair, intermittently during the marriage, or a solitary one night stand. The unfaithful spouse often attributes the cause of infidelity to anger or resentment toward the other spouse and sexual boredom or lack of love within the marriage.
Breakdown in Communication
A lack of communication is a leading reason for divorce. A couple cannot have an effective relationship if they both are unable to discuss their feelings and personal as well as mutual issues. A breakdown in communication is inevitable if resentments are not openly discussed and one spouse expects the other to guess what is wrong.
Abuse
Abuse of a spouse or the children is clear grounds for divorce. Physical abuse includes violent assault against a spouse or child, fighting, and physical bullying. Psychological and emotional abuse encompasses taunting, verbal insults, humiliation and intimidation of a spouse.
Financial Issues
“…for richer, for poorer…” Financial issues that place an economic strain on the couple is a common cause for divorce. Couples will deal with money matters at some point in their marriage. An economic downturn, such as loss of a job or a drop in income, puts strain on a marriage. Differences regarding the allocation of money can lead an already fragile relationship to divorce court.
Sexuality Incompatibility
Research supports the fact that the average strength of the sex drive in men and women is most compatible for couples aged ten years apart.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment3 Comments
I believe that some of these issues are valid for divorce while others are differences that a couple must work through in keeping with the marital commitment to each other.
July 10, 2010 - 9:24amThis Comment
Thank you for your comment, Anonymous. I guess each and every situation is different. It depends on the two people involved.
July 10, 2010 - 10:01amI use what I call "the three A's" as grounds for divorce.
Abuse (any kind, incl. that of the children)
Adultery
Addiction (that they refuse to seek help for)
Keeps it simple, although nothing is really simple in relationships...
July 10, 2010 - 10:44am