Introduction
Some families unfortunately end up in broken marriages for a variety of reasons. Marriage requires a lot of work, commitment and sacrifice from both partners to be successful long-term. When one or both partners are unable or unwilling to put in the effort required, issues can arise that lead to divorce. There are a few key factors that commonly contribute to broken marriages:
Lack of communication
Communication is vital in any healthy relationship. When spouses stop communicating openly and honestly with each other, misunderstandings, resentment and disconnection can develop. Poor communication makes it difficult for partners to resolve conflicts in a constructive manner.
Financial stress
Money issues are one of the top reasons couples argue and can destroy a marriage. When finances are tight or partners have different money management styles, it can easily create tension. Debt, overspending, lack of financial transparency and disagreements about financial priorities put strain on the relationship.
Infidelity
An affair is an obvious breach of trust and commitment that devastates the other spouse emotionally. Infidelity often leads the betrayed partner to file for divorce, as it is difficult to rebuild trust after such profound betrayal. Even emotional affairs take an emotional toll on the marriage.
Lack of intimacy
Intimacy encompasses not just sex but also emotional and spiritual closeness. When spouses start feeling disconnected and no longer share intimacy, the marriage bond weakens over time. Lack of physical intimacy is also a common problem that arises after years of marriage, which can leave one or both partners unsatisfied.
Unresolved conflicts
Letting conflicts and grievances fester without addressing them allows resentment to build up in a relationship over time. Small issues become big when they are not dealt with properly. Partners start to feel like their needs are not being met, which chips away at the marriage.
Diverging values/priorities
People change over time, and spouses may grow apart instead of together. Differing lifestyle priorities, interests, goals and values lead to less understanding and connection. Partners feel like they are no longer on the same page about what is important.
Neglect
When one or both spouses stop investing time and effort into the marriage, neglect can make the relationship deteriorate. Lack of quality time together, taking each other for granted and letting the passion fade harms the marriage bond over time.
Physical or emotional abuse
Any form of abuse has no place in a marriage. Verbal, physical, emotional or psychological abusebreaks trust and safety in the relationship. An abusive partner erodes the other spouse’s self-esteem and dignity over time.
Addiction issues
Substance abuse and other addictions like gambling eventually derail marriages. The addiction becomes the main priority and focus over the marriage, draining resources and emotional connection from the relationship. It often leads to deception, unpredictable behavior and broken promises.
Mental health issues
When depression, anxiety and other mental health problems are not managed properly, relationships suffer. The spouse without the illness can start to feel drained and resentful over time of caretaking and bearing the brunt of symptoms.
How can couples prevent ending up in broken marriages?
While there are many reasons marriages fail, there are also steps couples can take to strengthen their bond and prevent relationships from reaching the breaking point:
Improve communication
Make communication a regular priority by checking in daily, scheduling weekly sit-downs and expressing appreciation. Listen without judgment, validate each other’s feelings and compromise. Avoid criticism, contempt and defensiveness.
Manage finances collaboratively
Talk openly about money, budget together, split financial responsibilities fairly and align on financial goals. Live within your means and don’t make large purchases without mutual agreement. Seek financial counseling if needed.
Prioritize intimacy
Set aside regular time for romantic dates, sex and emotional bonding. Try new experiences together, address any intimacy issues early and don’t neglect physical affection. Compliment each other and re-establish intimacy after conflicts.
Allow each partner to grow
Support each other’s personal growth and interests. Find shared activities but also respect differing needs and values. Adapt as both of you change over time while still protecting the marriage.
Resolve conflicts and arguments
Don’t allow grudges or disagreements to pile up unaddressed. Compromise when needed, forgive readily and don’t hold onto anger. Seek counseling to improve conflict resolution skills if you struggle in this area.
Make time for fun and relaxation
Make sure you enjoy quality time together, away from work, kids and chores. Plan regular date nights, weekends away and activities you both find fun, playful and relaxing. Don’t let stress overwhelm you.
Seek help when needed
Don’t be afraid to admit when you need outside help and proactively attend marriage counseling. Address personal or mental health issues early. Build a support network of family, friends and professionals.
Conclusion
Broken marriages result when couples are no longer able to communicate, support each other’s needs, align on priorities and resolve conflicts in a healthy manner. However, by making consistent investments in their bond through better communication, intimacy, teamwork and quality time, couples have the power to protect their relationship and prevent it deteriorating to the point of divorce. Seeking help proactively also improves outcomes for marriages experiencing problems and challenges. With mutual commitment, understanding and effort, married couples can avoid heartbreak and build fulfilling lifelong partnerships.
