Common Factors that Lead to Divorce

A staggering 40-50% of married couples divorce in the U.S., according to the American Psychological Association (APA) and the divorce rate increases after each subsequent marriage. What causes two people who decided to go through the stages of getting married to reach their limits and demand a divorce? There are several factors that can play a role, but not everyone may be affected the same way by these factors because everyone is different. If you are personally about to go through a divorce, an Oklahoma divorce lawyer is highly recommended to ensure that you receive a fair deal.

Common Reasons for Divorce

The most common reasons people report for going through with a divorce are a lack of commitment, infidelity, and repeated arguing. Less common reasons are marrying when they were too young, financial struggles, drug or alcohol addiction, and domestic abuse. Many report a gradual decrease in commitment over time and infidelity seems to exacerbate this concern. Feelings associated with a lack of commitment involve feeling like their partner is a friend more than a romantic partner.

Conflicts tend to increase communication problems in a marriage, which can hinder each partner’s ability to have their needs fulfilled. If communication is broken, a person’s concerns and needs cannot be stated easily. This creates tension, which only worsens preexisting problems.

Psychological Stages of Divorce

Divorce usually does not happen overnight and there are various stages that each partner goes through before the last line is crossed and divorce seems to be the only way out. The first sign of an impending divorce is one partner blaming the other or if both partners regularly blame each other. This blame may be shifted from one partner to another in a vicious cycle. If neither partner is able to admit that the other may be wrong, then a resolution will remain distant.

What follows is a stage of grief, hopelessness, and expressions of dissatisfaction in marriage. The other partner may sense this and reciprocate with further dissatisfaction. This can lead to built up resentment and anger, especially if neither has been successful or able to communicate their feelings about the situation. By the next stage, there are so many negative emotions that some may date someone else, talk to a potential partner, or experience life independently away from home.

The final stage is deciding to take the next steps to obtain a divorce through court. This may involve talking with a family lawyer or attempting a divorce without legal counsel.

Seeking Help from a Family Attorney

If you have questions or concerns about getting divorced, then try consulting with your local divorce lawyer who will be able to offer legal advice, ways to avoid financial pitfalls, and help in court. You can talk with a family lawyer today by contacting the Putnam Law Office at (405)-849-9149 for consultation. Mr. Putnam is an Oklahoma City, OK attorney who puts clients first and will work with you to defend your rights.