Money arguments are one of the leading causes of divorce in Massachusetts. Given the integral role of finances in a marriage, when couples can’t find a way to manage their debts properly, a rift is likely to form.
How debt destroys happy marriages
The first thing debt does to a couple is affect how they spend their disposable income. Circumstances may force a couple trying to get ahead financially to cut back on fun activities and nights out. This can lead to feelings of resentment towards each other.
Secondly, debt can put a strain on a couple’s communication. Money problems are oftentimes a taboo topic that most people don’t feel comfortable discussing. This lack of communication can cause further problems down the road.
Thirdly, when one partner is shouldering the majority of the financial burden, it’s only natural for them to start feeling overwhelmed and resentful. And, if one spouse is consistently putting money towards debt payments and the other isn’t contributing, it can create a power dynamic that leads to further tension.
Couples may also have different views on how to handle their debts, which can cause conflict. One spouse may be more aggressive about paying off debts, while the other is more comfortable with taking a slower approach. This difference in opinion can quickly turn into a full-blown argument if not managed properly.
In some cases, one spouse may have incurred debt without the knowledge of the other. This can come as a complete shock to the other spouse and cause a lot of anger and resentment that may lead to divorce.
Lastly, debt can be a source of stress for couples. This stress can manifest in different ways, such as insomnia, anxiety and depression. And, when couples are under a lot of stress, they’re more likely to fight with each other.
While debt doesn’t necessarily cause divorce, it can certainly be a contributing factor. If you are having this problem, there are things you can do to salvage your marriage, like seeking professional help and coming up with a plan to pay off your debts. But, if you find that your debt is too much of a burden, it may be best to end things before they get any worse.