Why Do We Get A Divorce?

We’ve all heard that about half of all marriages end in divorce. While the numbers do change from year to year, that statistic appears to be relatively constant. When it comes to subsequent marriages, the rate jumps even higher. About 60% of second marriages, and over 70% of third marriages, end in divorce.

The question that these statistics fail to address, of course, is what causes all these divorces? While the answer to this question varies from year to year and from state to state, my experience practicing family law in Houston for over 40 years has given me a unique insight into the issue. Based upon that experience, here are some of the leading causes of divorce:

• Financial Stress. Having problems with finances appears to be one of the main reasons for divorce. Not having enough money to pay bills obviously puts a major strain on the entire household, and this can be precipitated or exacerbated by a job loss, failure to control spending, disputes over who is in charge of the money, or even issues such as gambling or substance abuse (see below). The accompanying stress can lead to arguments and have a negative impact on the entire household.
• Communication Issues. If a couple fails to communicate, they are ignoring what is, for most successful marriages, the foundation of the relationship between them. Being able to express your needs is essential to sharing a life together. Lack of effective communication can lead to nasty or snide comments, feelings of isolation, and eventually the breakdown of the relationship.
• Intimacy Issues. This includes both physical and emotional intimacy. In other words, intimacy is not always about sex. Lack of intimacy can lead to feelings of isolation, and sometimes can be the impetus for extramarital affairs.
• Domestic Violence. Domestic violence comes in many forms, and we’re including here both physical and emotional violence. When one partner is dominated by and fearful of the other, either physically, emotionally, or both, the relationship can be destroyed in the process.
• Substance Abuse. Alcoholism and drug abuse are poison when it comes to trying to maintain a healthy relationship. When untreated, addiction can destroy the financial stability of a marriage, as well as the trust and communication that are essential if the marriage is to be successful.

Contact Mary Quinn, Houston Divorce Attorney

These are not, by any means, the only causes of divorce. There are numerous other possible reasons why marriages fail. But the reasons listed above, based upon my experience, cover a healthy majority of the divorce cases I have seen over the years.

If you are looking for a divorce lawyer near you, contact us at:
Law Office of Mary Quinn
106 Avondale St.
Houston, TX 77006
713-225-0094