Divorce can happen for many reasons or for almost no reason at all. Some people just drift apart, over time or decide that they’re unhappy in the relationship, even though it was working before.
That being said, it can be helpful to look at some of the most common reasons for divorce in the United States. This can help you to identify if a divorce may be on the horizon for you and your spouse, and you can then begin preparing for this legal process.
10 reasons often cited
Of course, every case is going to be unique, but researchers have asked divorced individuals why they split up. This allows them to compile a list of the most common answers, some of which are noted below:
- A lack of commitment from one or both of the spouses
- Extramarital affairs or accusations of infidelity
- The onset of health problems
- Issues with finances and financial stress
- Substance abuse issues
- Consistent arguing and excessive levels of conflict
- Tying the knot at too young of an age
- Not having any support from an extended family
- Encountering significant religious differences
- Having no premarital education, or at least very little
All of these things can put stress on a relationship, and that means they can eventually lead to a divorce. Some of them you can change and address, such as substance abuse issues, and some you cannot, such as getting married too young. If you and your spouse are moving toward a divorce, take the time to carefully consider all of the legal steps you’ll need to take and the options you have at your disposal.