Divorce can be difficult even in the most mutual circumstances. Within the last 75 years, the stigma around divorce has largely lifted across the United States. It has gone from unheard of to 45% of all marriages ending in divorce. In fact, the U.S. has the highest divorce rate in the world despite that the divorce rate among 16-65-year-olds is actually decreasing. So, what are the reasons people get divorced and can you avoid those causes? Let’s look at divorce causes and trends more closely.
Common Causes of Divorce
There are a number of common causes for divorce that are cited more frequently than other reasons. The most common causes for divorce include (not in order of prevalence):
1. Infidelity
2. Domestic violence – physical, emotional and verbal abuse
3. Financial problems
4. Lack of intimacy – physical or romantic
5. Communication difficulties
6. Lack of commitment
7. Lack of shared interests
8. Fighting, arguing, and breakdown of the relationship
9. Substance abuse – alcohol and drugs
10. Health problems/mental illness
There is a reason this list is not in order of prevalence. It’s because the reason at the top of the list changes based on age and socioeconomic status of the couple. For some age groups, infidelity is the top cause. For other age groups, health problems/mental illness might be a top cause. It’s also important to note that the divorce rate among couples aged 50 and over is double that of couples in the 20-40’s age groups. A 2004 AARP study looked at the top causes of divorce for people aged 40-79 and found that the top reasons were domestic violence, different values/morals and infidelity (in that order).
Nationally, the top 5 reasons listed in divorce filings are infidelity, lack of commitment, alcohol/substance abuse, financial difficulties and irreconcilable differences. However, relationships are rarely black and white situations and there are likely a number of factors from the list involved in most divorces. Hardly ever is there just one reason or cause for a marriage to deteriorate. One of the few causes that can singularly destroy a marriage is infidelity. If you suspect your partner is being unfaithful, Bulldog PI can help. We can investigate to get you the answers and truth you deserve.
