Similar to the risk factors for diabetes or heart disease, science has discovered that certain qualities within a couple that may increase their chance of divorce. These traits, of course, do not guarantee an unhappy marriage, however, simply understanding the dynamics between a couple is one way our Orlando Divorce Attorneys are able to sharpen our skills to better aid our clients. Research shows the couples most likely to be entering into a divorce have little education, married at a young age, spent a large amount of money on their nuptials, or have previously divorced.
Studies reveal that a college education can help reduce your chances of divorce. Eli Finkel, a psychologist and professor at Northwestern University, found couples that were both without a high school degree or relatively uneducated have a higher divorce rate than ever. Meanwhile, the divorce rate of a couple who has completed college or pursued higher education is steadily decreasing. With further education, the couple is likely to be found in a more financially stable relationship. This stability alleviates some pressure or strain multiple jobs or insufficient resources may have on the relationship.
The most well-known factor is the age of the parties entering the union. The longer you wait to marry your partner the more likely your marriage will last. However, you do not want to delay too long, as your rate of divorce will then begin to steadily increase. According to the Institute of Family Studies, there is an ideal age range for marriage, 28-32. Marriages that occur in your early twenties have the highest divorce rate, with the rate of divorce decreasing between ages 28-32, but then beginning to rise again after the age of 32.
The expense of your wedding may also have a correlation to your marriage’s success. Emory University conducted a study that revealed, women who spent more than $20,000 on their wedding day were 3.5 times more likely to divorce than their counterparts who spent between $5,000-10,000. Meanwhile, those couples who spent $1,000 or less had the lowest rate of divorce. Researchers contributed this to the possibility that the couple who spent less on their nuptials had more money to spend in the first year of their marriage, aiding in buying a home or starting college funds for children, relieving some financial distress debt or bills have on a marriage.
Engagement in prior marriages may also affect a couple’s chances of divorce. Couples who have both been through a divorce previously are more likely than first-time married couples to end their marriage. Divorce rates are 60% for second marriages and 73% for third. Studies suggest that once a person goes through a divorce, their perspective on marriage and relationships change, giving them a more negative outlook. They no longer look at marriage as a lifelong commitment, but one that they can readily leave when emotional, physical or financial difficulties arise. These individuals are also less likely to seek marriage counseling or other strategies to repair the marriage.
No crystal ball can predict if your marriage will end in divorce. Even if you fall into every high-risk category above, you could still spend a lifetime with your partner. Finding an attorney who understands both the law and the factors that may contribute to a divorce is essential. We strive to empathize and fight for our clients’ needs by understanding their background and unique situations. If you do find yourself in the difficult area of divorce contact an experienced Orlando Divorce Attorney who can help you navigate this difficult time. Speak to one of our Orlando divorce attorneys if you are facing a divorce. We accept calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact us at 800-822-5171 or complete an online contact form to get in touch with a member of our team today. We also have offices in Panama City, Fort Walton, Pensacola, and Navarre Florida.