According to national statistics, wives file for divorce more than husbands do. In fact, the data shows that women file for divorce in almost 80 percent of all divorces. One of the reasons why these numbers have significantly increased over the past several decades is that divorce is much more accepted than it was years ago. There is no longer a stigma attached to being a “divorced woman.” Women have also gained significant strides in financial independence.
When it comes to the reasons why women file for divorce, the following are the top four reasons cited in multiple studies:
Financial Issues
Financial problems are the number one reason why women say they file for divorce. The pressures and stress that money problems bring to a couple often spill into other areas of the marriage. Arguments about money suddenly become arguments about who left the cap off the toothpaste. The anger about the financial situation begins to eat away at the marriage until it gets to the point where the wife decides they have had enough.
Substance Abuse and Addiction Issues
Years ago, if a spouse had an alcohol or other substance abuse issues, it was usually kept “secret” by the family. But in today’s society, it is recognized as a serious issue and not one that has to be hidden by family members. A spouse that has a substance abuse issue puts so much strain on a family’s emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing. The addiction can and does wreck a marriage and is one of the most common reasons why women file for divorce.
Domestic Abuse
For many women, their wedding day signifies their “happily ever after” ending after being swept off their feet by their Prince Charming. But Prince Charming can turn into a beast and the wife finds herself the victim of domestic abuse. Many times, the abuser is able to hide that side of themselves until after the marriage. Sometimes, there are red flags, but the women either doesn’t realize what these warnings signify, or they choose to ignore them.
Domestic violence can take the form of physical, emotional, and/or financial abuse. There can be physical aggression during episodes of rage and anger or physical abuse where the spouse is absolutely controlled and calm. Emotional abuse is also classified as domestic violence, where the husband just hammers away at the wife, day in and day out, degrading her and exerting control over her. Many victims of abuse finally are able to break free of their abuser and end the marriage.
Infidelity
A cheating spouse is another top reason cited by wives as to why they decide to end their marriage. For many wives, once their husband has been unfaithful once, they feel that trust will never be regained, and the damage cannot be repaired.
Therapy
While the above reasons are the most common reasons cited by women as to why they divorce, the truth is that any of these reasons does not have to be the cause of divorce. Couples counseling in Palatine, IL may be able to help salvage your relationship and provide a truly “happily ever after” ending. Call a clinic today.
Thanks to Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into counseling and reasons for divorce.