23 May 5 Most Common Reasons for Relationship Breakdown & Divorce
Written by Bev Clark
At the beginning of a relationship, when both parties have love in their hearts and rose coloured glasses firmly planted on their face, neither party is anticipating the possibility that the relationship may fail. The reality is however, that a high proportion of relationships will indeed fail.
The most common reasons for failure, not necessarily in order, are:
Financial Incapacity –
Not everyone has the same relationship with money, and if parties to a relationship are incompatible in this regard it is not surprising that it can be a source of contention in a relationship. If one party lives for the moment and spends what they earn and the other party prefers to live frugally and within their means, saving funds for the future, then arguments are going to ensue. In the ideal world, couples will have discussed their financial goals and have a good understanding of their financial habits prior to making a commitment to each other. Often, however, they do not openly discuss these things and only discover the incompatibility when the relationship is underway.
Addiction –
Addiction comes in many forms. It could be illegal substances, alcohol, pornography, gambling or prescription medication. It could be an obsession with social media or gaming. Addiction in any guise can adversely affect a relationship, put a party and their children at risk both physically and financially, and is a common cause of relationship breakdown.
Lack of Support –
Partners look for support from each other in the good times and the hard times. If a partner feels unsupported when things are tough, they may lose confidence in the relationship. Conversely, if a partner is not celebrating the other’s successes, this can also be the cause of a relationship disconnecting. If you find yourself celebrating a major success or a moment of joy and your partner is not the first person you call, or the one you most want to celebrate with, then this may indicate that there is a problem within the relationship.
Communication Issues –
Every relationship has its ups and downs. Even the strongest of relationships are going to have occasions when the parties need to resolve a dispute between them. The ability to sit down with each other, have a conversation about what isn’t working and resolve any dispute respectfully is a strong indicator of a good relationship. When parties are not able to communicate freely, honestly and openly in relation to all aspects of their relationship, or if they cannot resolve a dispute without reverting to threats, violence, silent treatment or a refusal to discuss issues, then the relationship may be heading for a breakdown.
Infidelity –
In some relationships when a partner strays, it is an indication of a problem or someone not having their needs met, but it does not terminate the relationship. For some people, they can look beyond the infidelity and move forward together. For others, even the hint of infidelity is a deal breaker and the relationship cannot survive. Most experts will say that having an affair is a sign of a problem in a relationship, not necessarily the cause of a problem in a relationship.
Need Help:
If a relationship has broken down, or is breaking down, consulting with an empathetic and experienced family lawyer can guide you in the right direction. We are able to refer you to appropriate therapists to assist in the repair of a relationship, should that be the desire. We are able to advise and assist in a managed exit strategy where that is required, and we are able to give guidance and assistance in relation to protective measures, both with respect to personal safety and also financial security.
Belperio Clark conduct free relationship breakdown seminars on a monthly basis to give people guidance on the various options they have in relation to resolving any dispute at the end of a relationship. Alternatively, you may prefer a personal consultation with one of our experienced family law practitioners to gain insight in relation to your specific circumstances.
Call us on 8212 1322 to make an appointment.
