High incomes offer a sense of security in a marriage. You might assume that it cuts down on conflict, since many couples cite money as a reason for getting a divorce. One study says that 35% of people report that any struggle involving money is the biggest problem within their relationship.
However, research suggests that there are other factors at play that can influence whether a couple gets a divorce. Some divorce professionals even suggest that more money in a marriage offers more opportunity for problems.
If you’re concerned about your marriage as it relates to money, these studies may help you understand your current position.
High earning doesn’t always mean security
Experts say that the higher a couple’s credit scores, the more likely that their relationship will stand the test of time. This is especially true for couples who start their marriage each having high credit scores and a more solidified financial base. These marriages are less likely to quickly dissolve within a few years.
Unfortunately, there are those couples that may earn a great deal of income but struggle with their expenses, particularly if those expenses interfere with a couple’s ability to save for the future. Furthermore, with high-income households, it often happens that one person is making most of the money, and the other doesn’t work or doesn’t earn nearly as much. This difference can cause tension in some relationships.
How gender roles affect a marriage
Though many marriages have managed to fight off the traditional roles of “husband earns the money and wife cares for the home,” this is still the prevalent dynamic of many relationships. This means that men often manage the finances without as much input from their wives, which can affect the marriage.
Contrary to what you might think, when the economy is doing well, divorce rates actually increase, according to certain research groups. One set of survey respondents said that almost two times as many divorce professionals see a reduction in divorce rates only during a struggling economy. The theory is that couples would rather stay married than risk their finances to a divorce.
Quality time
High-earning people often have to travel for work. These long hours away from home can put a great deal of stress on any kind of marriage. Distance doesn’t allow for a couple to work out any disagreements in person, which can be vital to resolving conflict.
Divorce is not inevitable
Though these studies may paint a bleak picture for the marriages of high earners, none of this means that you are doomed to get a divorce just because you are financially stable. In fact, being aware of these studies can help you recognize potential issues that could be cropping up due to your finances.
