Tuesday, January 08, 2013

What do couples fight about?


The number one cause of divorce in America is infidelity.  The number two cause is financial issues.  Couples fight more often about money than anything else.  And a study at Utah State University found that couples who disagree about their finances once a week are 30% more likely to divorce than couples who disagree once a month.  So, here’s how to cut back on the friction about your finances:

  • Don’t equate expensive gifts with love.  A Brigham Young University study found that couples that were concerned about having expensive things scored lower on marital satisfaction tests.  And those who weren't concerned about material things were more likely to be happy just being together.  And if both partners were materialistic, they were more likely to fight about money, even if they had plenty to spend.
  • Never hide your purchases from your partner!  In one survey, 30% of respondents said they felt that hiding purchases was financial infidelity.  And they considered that as harmful as having an affair.
  • Stop spending your money on stuff, and use it for experiences you can enjoy together.  According to the Journal of Consumer Psychology, splurging on concert tickets and vacations makes couples happier than buying new possessions.  That’s because we get a mood boost from anticipating an event before it happens.  And the memories we have will last long after our “new stuff” is worn out and gathering dust in the garage.

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