It is impossible to predict if a marriage will last a lifetime or not. However, there are things that spouses can anticipate when their marriage is coming to an end. Here are some divorce precursors that you should look out for.
The “four horsemen”
Communication is an integral part of any kind of relationship. Therefore, any factor that interferes with it puts your marriage in jeopardy. A renowned marriage researcher and psychologist, John Gottman, Ph.D., named four communication habits that predict divorce the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.” They include contempt, stonewalling, defensiveness and criticism. Thinking you are better than your partner, constantly disapproving of them, showing disgust or playing a victim all the time to win an argument can create a great rift.
Arguments about money
Many factors play a role in divorce, and one of the greatest is money. You may have a different view on money than your partner or different goals, which is okay. But if you can’t find a way to understand each other or tolerate your partner, you are likely to end up in a divorce.
Experts show that you are 30% more likely to split ways if you constantly disagree about your finances. Other partners may also get envious of their partner’s success, which could lead to problems if they don’t work it out.
Extramarital affairs
Some marriages survive affairs, but most end when one partner cheats. People often feel betrayed, unloved and uncared for when their partner commits adultery. It could be much worse if that partner uses your marital assets to fund the affair.
Texas is a no-fault divorce state, but you can use adultery as grounds for marriage dissolution. It can affect property distribution, especially when the partner who committed the affair used marital assets to fund it.
Getting divorced is one of the toughest things a person can go through. It is best to try to work things out and avoid habits that might negatively impact your marriage.