3 ways that money can contribute to a divorce
So much depends on money that it is no surprise that it can affect a marriage. And that often the effect is negative and can result in a divorce.
Here are some reasons money could lead to a divorce:
Spouses hold different attitudes toward money
Some people like saving every last cent. Others have much more difficulty doing this as they have a tendency to spend. That can lead to conflict, as one spouse may feel the other’s spending jeopardizes their future financial security. The other may feel their spouse’s insistence on scrimping and saving harms the ability to enjoy the present.
Spouses do not have enough money
Enough is a subjective term, but if you are struggling to pay your bills, then it’s probable that money could be causing tension both personally and jointly. Constant worries about how to stay above water can be draining, perhaps even affecting mental health. It can lead to a situation where neither spouse is at their best. They might blame each other for their money worries – perhaps one thinks the other should work more or should never have given up that well-paid job, even though it made them unhappy. All this can lead to arguments, guilt or resentment, none of which promotes a healthy relationship.
Spouses feel other family members are not their financial responsibility
Your father-in-law is ill and does not have the financial means to pay for the treatment themself. Your spouse wants to use your joint savings to help them. You are not against helping, but you know that doing so would mean waving goodbye to the chance of buying a house. It’s the sort of difficult decision many couples have to deal with, and there is no easy answer.
If differences over money have led to divorce, be sure to get legal help to protect your financial interests going forward.