Divorce causes and marital decline factors identified in study

Research and family communication experts have identified several key factors that contribute to the decline of marital bonds and the eventual decision to divorce.

A report from Forbes Advisor indicates that the most common cause of divorce is a lack of support from family, cited by 43 percent of cases. This often involves interference or excessive control from in-laws. Other significant factors include infidelity (34 percent), incompatibility (31 percent), lack of intimacy (31 percent), and frequent conflict (31 percent). While financial stress is a known issue, it was cited by 24 percent of respondents, ranking lower than family-related and interpersonal conflicts.

Family communication experts also note that emotional connections weaken when couples stop spending quality time together, cease meaningful conversation, or lose the ability to share laughter and empathy. When communication shifts from sharing feelings and dreams to merely discussing logistics like bills and chores, the relationship can transition from a partnership to a mere functional arrangement.