Infidelity, parenting differences and communication problems are all common and openly discussed causes of divorce. However, one reason for divorce that possibly happens just as much is financial difficulties.
Financial issues can appear in a marriage in many ways. Here’s what you should know:
1. Drug use and gambling
A marriage may be facing problems because a spouse has developed an addiction, such as drug use or gambling. These habits can not only affect a relationship mentally but also financially. An addiction could start with the money one spouse earns and encroach on the other spouse’s earnings or joint savings, breeding resentment from within the marriage on multiple levels.
2. Salary differences
Many couples earn different salaries. While this doesn’t create issues for some people, it could also create resentment and frustration between spouses. The salary one spouse makes may allow them to afford a higher standard of living, which the other spouse can’t afford. This difference could cause one spouse to feel neglected or angry.
3. Financial control and manipulation
Another issue that can happen when one spouse earns more than the other is financial manipulation. For example, many couples have one spouse making an income to support the household while the other stays at home to care for the home or children. The income-earning spouse may use their income to control what the other spouse can and can’t do with their time at the threat of restricting their access to banking or savings accounts.
4. Hidden debts
It’s not uncommon for people to have some kind of medical, school or credit card debt. A spouse may not be open with the other about what debts they have. As a result, it could create some complications and frustrations, especially if the debts are overwhelming and have attracted debt collectors.
If financial issues create a divide between you and your spouse, then you may want to learn about your legal options.
