Crystal Wright | October 6, 2023 | Divorce
You’re likely aware of the famous statistic that half of all marriages end in divorce. While that is true, it only applies to first marriages. The divorce rate for additional marriages is even higher, with 60% of second marriages and 70% of third marriages ending in divorce.
Marriages end for a multitude of reasons. Infidelity, financial stress, and lack of compatibility and intimacy are only some of the causes driving divorce.
Risk Factors That Could Increase the Chance of Divorce
Marriage can be difficult enough as it is, but certain risk factors could make it even more challenging to have a successful, long-lasting marriage. The following are just ten of the most common risk factors for divorce.
You Married Young
Not all marriages that start early end in divorce, but there’s a higher chance they will. Marriage is a big decision, and making that decision at a younger age could result in divorce. Statistically, couples who marry at 20 run a 50% greater risk of divorce than those who wait until 25. However, the ideal time to get married is between 28 and 32.
Your Parents Were Divorced
If your parents are divorced, it can be harder to have a successful marriage. According to findings published in Psychological Science, divorce could even be encoded in your genes.
Your Finances (Or Your Spouse’s) Aren’t in Order
Financial issues place a huge burden on spouses and the marriage as a whole. When either spouse’s finances are not in order, it could affect marital funds and, in turn, the couple’s relationship.
You Had Children Before Marriage
These days, it’s common for individuals to have children before getting married. However, doing so could negatively affect your relationship. A 2020 study from the Journal of Family Psychology found that spouses who have biological children before getting married report lower satisfaction in their marriages. Additionally, communication was shown to be less effective and more negative.
Your Spouse Has Previously Been Married
The risk of divorce is already high for first marriages. However, subsequent marriages are at an even greater risk. So, if you or your spouse have been married before, it could affect the marriage negatively.
Your Kids Are Getting Older
One study published by the American Journal of Sociology found that children increase marital stability. However, younger children were shown to further increase this stability, while older children were shown to increase the chance of disruption in the marriage.
You and Your Spouse Lived Together Before Marriage
Times have changed. One of these changes is that more couples are living together before marriage. While this could be beneficial for short-term finances, it could have repercussions for the future marriage. Previous studies have shown that living together with your partner before marriage can elevate the risk of divorce.
Educational Background
Education is important for work and career advancement, but it can also be tied to marital success. According to findings from the National Center for Health Statistics, women with a college education are more likely to have lasting marriages than those without.
You and Your Partner Share Different Beliefs
Religious beliefs can play a vital role in marriage. Spouses who share different beliefs are more likely to get divorced, as varied religious beliefs can cause friction in marriage and child-rearing.
Either Spouse Has Unrealistic Expectations
Expectations can get in the way of a marriage. If a person has unrealistic expectations for their spouse or the marriage as a whole, dissatisfaction could be an issue if their standards go unmet.
If Your Marriage Is Headed For Divorce, Consult an Experienced Divorce Attorney
No one enters a marriage expecting to get divorced. That said, in some cases, divorce is the best possible option. If your marriage is coming to an end, do not wait to speak with a qualified divorce attorney. A lawyer can guide and support you through the divorce process until you reach a fair resolution.
Contact the Divorce Lawyers at Crystal Wright Law To Get Legal Assistance Today
To learn more and get the help you deserve, call our divorce & family law firm at (404) 594-2143 or reach out to Crystal Wright Law online by visiting our contact us page.
You can also visit our law firm at 440 S. Perry Street Suite 105, Lawrenceville, GA 30046.