Each year divorce becomes more common and frequent. In the US, the statistic most people have heard frequently is that more than half of all marriages end in divorce or permanent separation. Couples with lasting relationships have stated that commitment was the reason they were able to make it work long-term. Divorce is not always bad because some marriages weren’t the right choice and therefore needed to end. However, when surveyed, many divorced couples regret not having worked harder to save their marriages. There are some indicators of divorce, and some factors put couples at a higher risk.
How Many Marriages End in Divorce?
Researchers found between 40% and 50% of all first marriages are fated to end in permanent separation or divorce—that number spikes to between 60% - 65% for second marriages. Divorce has been part of the legal framework in the United States since the beginning of the country, but socially, it was viewed unfavorably until national culture changed in the late 60s and early 70s. Divorce laws changed and made it easier to obtain a divorce, and the national highs for divorce rates were in the late 70s and early 80s. They have been in decline since. Despite divorce rates being in decline, they are still high.
Who is at Risk for Divorce?
There are certain factors that leave couples at a higher risk for divorce. Researchers found that the following factors were indicators of a high likelihood to divorce:
- Marrying Young – couples who marry young are more likely to divorce, especially at the beginning of the marriage.
- Limited Education – couples with at least some college education have better marital outcomes.
- Low Income – money is a stressor in marriage, so having a low income suggests money issues early on, which can be an indicator of divorce.
- Cohabitation Before Marriage – living together before marriage would seem like a great way to practice being together before making it official. Surprisingly, the opposite holds true in statistics. When couples cohabitate, they form a leniency towards divorce.
- Premarital Childbearing – Having children before marriage significantly increases the likelihood of future divorce.
- Lack of Religious Affiliation – Those with a religious affiliation were more likely to remain married and commit long-term. Those without an affiliation were more likely to divorce.
- Divorced Parents – Being from a divorced household doubles a couples’ chances of their marriage ending in divorce.
These statistics are not harbingers of marital doom. Rather, they are indicators that some couples may have blind spots that require extra care within their relationships. Being aware of these indicators can help couples know where their weak spots reside.
Why Do Couples Get Divorced?
Divorce indicators can help couples realize they have to put in the work to make their relationships last. Sometimes, divorce is for a good reason.
The most common reasons for divorce are:
- Lack of Commitment
- Argumentative Relationship
- Infidelity
- Marrying too Young
- Unrealistic Expectations
- Lack of Equality in the Relationship
- Limited Preparation for Marriage
- Abusive Relationship
The research also showed that ultimately, many couples reportedly felt as if they no longer were in love. When a relationship feels platonic and void of love, it can make divorce seem as if it’s the only option.
Knowledgeable and Thoughtful Divorce Representation
Divorce is a trying time for couples, and if you’ve done everything you can to save your marriage, the thoughtful and knowledgeable attorneys at William Kirby Law can help you navigate the process to end your relationship. Our lawyers understand how emotionally draining it can be to go through this process alone, so our attorneys are standing by, ready to help you navigate the divorce process. Call us at (215) 515-9901 to review your case.