According to statistics, 40%–50% of all first marriages and 60% of second marriages in the United States end in divorce (Hawkins, and Fackrell 41). But what makes half of all married couples break up?
First and foremost, divorce occurs because of lack of responsibility and unrealistic expectations. When young people fall in love and marry they expect their future life to be like in fairy tales without any effort from their sides. But soon they discover that happy marriage demands hard every day work.
The second reason for divorce is lack of commitment. In contemporary society choice and freedom are highly estimated. Thus, if the marriage does not work, most people prefer to divorce and see if they can be happier in another relationship rather than stay together and try to make things better.
Another reason for divorce is infidelity. Statistics shows that “10%–15% of women and 20%–25% of men were unfaithful to their spouse while they were married” (Hawkins, and Fackrell 50). Of course it demands much courage, but married people need to evaluate their relationship and decide whether they should stay together and keep working to improve the relationship or part. In fact “50%–60% of married couples who experience infidelity stay together” (Hawkins, and Fackrell 50).
Among other reasons why people divorce I can mention domestic violence, substance abuse, premarital pregnancy, significant differences in values and beliefs, and coming from a divorced family. As you can see, reasons are abundant and usually “there’s a combination of factors that lead to a divorce” (“Causes of Divorce”). Nevertheless, if people decide to stay together and are ready to put effort in repairing their marriage, they can overcome all obstacles.
Works Cited
Hawkins, Alan J., and Fackrell, Tamara A. Should I Keep Trying to Work It Out? A Guidebook for Individuals and Couples at the Crossroads of Divorce (And Before). Salt Lake City, 2009. Web. 20 Nov. 2014.
“Causes of Divorce.” Professional Councelling. n.p., n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2014.
