While there are many reasons why couples decide to split, and each case is unique, there are some common threads that tie each divorce story together.

Infidelity

When one person has an extramarital affair, it fundamentally changes the marriage permanently. There are many reasons why infidelity can lead to divorce. First, it means that you can never trust your partner again, or at least not for a very long time. While a small fraction of couples do decide to stay together after one has cheated, many find that starting over is a better option for them than spending the rest of their life with someone they don’t trust. Cheating also can reveal that there are other issues within the marriage that are difficult to heal.

Substance Abuse

If someone is suffering from an addiction, it’s shocking how they can get away with it while living under the same roof with someone else or even raising children with them. An addiction prevents one partner from being engaged in a marriage or even in family life. Addiction can come in any form and take control of a person’s life. Addiction also undermines the trust that a marriage is built on. While some people can do very well in addiction recovery, it requires a commitment on the part of the addict to change.

Domestic Violence

Being abused by your spouse is enough of a reason to leave them. Domestic violence and abuse stem from one partner’s need for power and control over an intimate partner, whether it means controlling their finances, where they go, or who they are allowed to hang out with. Fortunately, divorce is a great way to start a new life for someone who has been in an abusive relationship and had their life restricted. If you are a woman who is ready to begin your new life, then there are attorneys for women who are here to help you.

Money Problems

While the reasons for divorce vary, one of the most common reasons for a couple splitting up is financial trouble. In fact, it is estimated that money problems in marriages are the number one cause for divorce. A lot of it comes down to a difference in values. One partner may have different beliefs on how to spend or save cash or assets, based on their upbringing, education level, and other factors. When one partner doesn’t feel the same way about the amount spent on a vacation or disagrees that a second car is necessary, then it can show wide gaps in where two people stand on financial matters. When a couple realizes that their financial goals and lifestyles are not compatible, it can lead to a lot of fighting regarding how to pay down debts, what to spend money on, what kind of education to provide for their children, and myriad other financial conflicts.

Differences In Values

When people first meet, they can have an instant attraction and create a bond together. But over time, differences in values may pop up. These become very apparent when discussing religion or how to raise children. Unfortunately, differences in values will erode a marriage because those are not very likely to change, bringing two to an impasse. Subsequent relationships may be more compatible with your goals in life and your beliefs. But if your relationship now is suffering because you two cannot stand on common ground, then it’s time to think about whether or not you’re better off being separated.