Several researchers and psychologists continue to allege that the current divorce rate is approximately 50 percent. However, according to one researcher who has gained her research knowledge from Harvard, and has conducted a more accurate study to uncover the real divorce rate, it is actually much lower. In fact, this researcher claims that the actual divorce rate for first-time marriages is surprisingly only about 20 or 25 percent.
In reality, however, although there appears to be a dip in the current divorce rate and couples are electing to work on their marriage, it does not change the fact that divorces still occur throughout the United States.
Common Causes of Divorce
A couple may divorce for a variety of reasons. The following is a look at some of the most common reasons why a couple may decide to go their separate ways:
- Infidelity: When a couple takes their marriage vows and promises themselves to each other, it represents what some believe to be an unbreakable bond. It is not uncommon for a person to forgive his or her spouse for many mistakes he or she may make during the marriage. However, when one spouse cheats on the other, the damage can be irreparable. The person who was betrayed may find it difficult to ever trust his or her spouse again, making it difficult to move on or repair their marriage.
- Drug Addiction: A once happy couple can quickly turn on each other when an addiction to drugs or alcohol is involved. An addiction can bring out the worst in a person and make it very difficult for him or her to maintain healthy relationships. Living with a spouse suffering from addiction is not easy and can take a toll on the union.
- Financial Trouble: Constantly talking about money and facing financial strife can negatively affect a marriage for several reasons. Not having enough money to maintain a household can be challenging and cause extra stress on both partners in a marriage. Additionally, disagreeing on how to manage finances can also be problematic and lead to several disagreements.
- Shift in Priorities: When a couple is in a committed relationship that lasts for a long period of time, it is inevitable for each partner to grow as an individual. However, problems can arise when one person no longer values the same things as his or her spouse. Just as couples grow together, they may also grow apart.
- Lack of Intimacy: Intimacy is an important factor in marriage that requires participation by both partners. If unattended, a lack of intimacy can lead to feelings of loneliness and cause a couple to slowly drift apart.
The decision to divorce can be a difficult one, and may lead to many unanswered questions about what went wrong. Although it can seem like a harrowing process, however, sometimes a divorce can be the best decision for a couple. If you are contemplating divorce in the Illinois area, contact one of our DuPage County divorce attorneys at Sullivan Taylor, Gumina & Palmer, P.C. today.
