There are many reasons people choose to file for divorce: lack of family support, infidelity, and compatibility are the top three, according to a survey by Forbes Advisor which polled 1,000 Americans who are divorced or currently getting a divorce.
But, almost all of those surveyed believe their union could have been saved by one factor or another. In fact, only 5% of respondents said they don’t think anything could have fixed their partnership.
Here are the top five factors that divorcees believe could have saved their marriage:
- A better understanding of the commitment of marriage prior to marrying
- A better understanding of the values and morals of their partner prior to marrying
- Waiting longer to start a family
- Seeking professional help from a therapist or couples counselor
- Waiting longer to get married
Of those surveyed, 63% said a better understanding of the commitment of marriage prior to marrying could have saved their partnership. Perhaps related, 34% of respondents said that their marriage ended due to infidelity.
More than half, 56%, of respondents said a better understanding of the values and morals of their partner might have helped them avoid divorce.
And 44% said waiting to start a family might have saved their marriage. Children seem to be a pain point for many couples with 43% of divorcees say parenting differences were a large source of conflict for them and their partner, along with division of household labor.
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