by Travers & Travers | Oct 2, 2019 | Divorce

A wide range of factors can contribute to a couple’s decision to divorce. In many cases, both parties’ behavior can contribute to the end of a marriage. Couples may be affected by infidelity, addiction, financial problems or a simple difference in parenting styles or opinions about the future. Still, certain personality factors are more strongly associated with an increased likelihood of divorce, experts say. Being aware of these concerns can help people assess their behavior and work to preserve their marriage.

While people may associate divorce with excessive fighting and ongoing arguments, conflict avoidance can actually be a major factor pointing toward the end of a marriage. It is important that people talk through their problems with one another rather than leaving them unspoken and unresolved. When couples avoid arguments, they may build up silent resentments or long-term alienation, leaving them on a road to growing apart or developing contempt for one another. On the other hand, when one partner constantly tries to take care of and provide for the other partner, without allowing him or her to support them in return, this can also lead to an unbalanced, insecure relationship.

Overly selfish behavior can also damage a marital relationship. While it is always important for each person to look out for their basic interests and not sacrifice themselves, a pattern of refusing to take a partner’s needs into account can doom a relationship. Excessive insecurity can also breed discontent whether through unearned distrust or a thirst for outside validation.

Any of these behaviors can contribute to an unhappy marital environment and an eventual divorce with all of the legal, practical and financial consequences that entails. A family law attorney may work with a divorcing spouse to negotiate for a fair settlement on property division, child custody, spousal support and other matters.