Money troubles can definitely increase the stress on a union and lead to marital distress – but wealth isn’t always the cure-all for relationship woes that many people think it can be.
In fact, some reports indicate that high-income couples are even more likely to struggle in their marital relationships than couples with more modest incomes. Here’s why:
You may still have significant financial strain
A high income doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a lot of money in the bank. Increased incomes and a higher standard of living often come with bigger bills and complicated financial situations that can still leave you living paycheck to paycheck.
You may lose focus on your marriage in favor of your career
All that money has to come from somewhere, and high-earners typically put in long hours at their jobs or businesses. That can end up robbing one or both spouses of the energy and time they need to devote toward maintaining their union. You and your spouse may simply drift apart over time when one or both of you are always at work.
You may have developed a power imbalance in the relationship
It’s not uncommon in wealthier households for one spouse to devote themselves to the house and children while the other is the primary wage earner. When the two halves of a couple approach money differently, that can lead to resentment and frustration. The wage-earner may end up feeling “used” for their paycheck, while the at-home spouse may end up feeling like they’re kept on a financial “leash.”
You may simply see less reason to stay together
There’s a notable correlation between the economic times and divorce rates: When the economy is bad, divorces tend to decrease. When the economy is good, people are more willing to take the chance and walk away from their relationships. What that tells researchers is that financial insecurity can encourage couples to try to work through their differences. When both halves of a couple feel financially secure on their own, there’s less incentive to stay together.
Ultimately, every relationship is different – but there’s no denying the fact that financial issues can be a big factor in any divorce. If you’re headed that way, it’s wise to seek legal guidance proactively in order to better safeguard your interests.