Originally posted on http://theaccidentalcommunicator.com/uncategorized/the-top-5-causes-of-divorce-in-the-united-states

Sometimes we may be asked to give a speech on an emotionally charged topic. We need to understand that although our audience is eager to hear what we have to tell them, they may not really want to hear our message. When we find ourselves in a situation like this, we need to tread lightly. We are going to have to take the time and carefully research our topic. Once we have the information that we’ll need, we then need to find a way to share it with our audience that will be factual and not condescending. Everything starts with getting your facts right. Let’s take a look at how we would go about researching the top 5 causes of divorce in the U.S.

You may have heard the statistic that half of all marriages end in divorce. This isn’t true today: the divorce rate in the US has dropped to about 40 percent.

It still means a good number of marriages end in divorce. Over time, the reasons for divorce have also changed. It may be one reason there are fewer divorces.

Why do people get divorced? Let’s look at the top five causes of divorce today.

1. Lack of Intimacy or Love is the Top Reason

It probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that the leading cause of divorce is a lack of intimacy or love. Marriage is a long-term commitment, but people change over time.

As you grow older, it’s possible for priorities and even your outlook to change. Your spouse may also change, and you may no longer feel connected to them the same way you once did.

Divorce doesn’t have to be the outcome. Many couples can work through issues and reconnect. It depends on how committed both partners are to the relationship.

2. Lack of Communication Hurt Marriages

Among the top reasons for divorce is communication.

Some people may feel their spouse doesn’t pay attention to what they say. Others may feel that they’re not allowed to express their opinions. Some people don’t communicate their feelings well, which can lead to issues.

Breakdowns in communication quickly harm a marriage. Both partners feel resentful and frustrated. If you’re constantly annoyed with your partner, you might start thinking about how you can fly the coop.

3. Age is One of the Surprising Causes of Divorce

Age might be nothing but a number, but it’s surprisingly important when it comes to marriage. The younger you are, the more likely you are to get a divorce.

People who get hitched in their early 20s are actually the most likely to call a divorce lawyer. There are a few reasons. One is that the brain doesn’t finish maturing until people are in their late 20s.

Couples who get married young have a greater chance of drifting apart. They may also have rushed into marriage. Those who delay tying the knot have a greater chance of finding a partner they’ll stick with.

4. Money Matters

Money changes everything, and that’s probably why it’s one of the top reasons for divorce. Different spending habits and different financial goals can put a strain on a marriage.

Money can often become a power struggle, as each spouse attempts to control the other’s spending. Even a change in income can increase stress, which in turn strains the marriage.

5. Infidelity Breaks Trust

Finally, infidelity may end a marriage. The spouse who has been cheated on may not be able to trust the other. The spouse who cheated may not change their ways.

Counseling can sometimes help couples learn to trust each other again, but not always.

Take Action Against the Causes of Divorce

There are other causes of divorce, some of them silly and some of them much more serious.

Since communication plays such a big role in marriage, it could be time to upgrade your skills. Take a look around and discover ways to quickly improve how you communicate with your spouse and everyone else in your life.