Each marriage is a unique journey that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Of course, some journeys last longer than others. Though there is no such thing as a “typical” spousal relationship, there are some patterns as to when in the course of a marriage spouses are most likely to get divorced.
Research points to two critical periods during a marriage when divorce rates spike: the initial two years and between the fifth and eighth years. Within these timeframes, the seventh and eighth years are often highlighted as the most perilous, which lends some support to the concept of a “seven-year itch.”
Tension early in a marriage can be traced to several life changes that happen at once. Instead of living alone or at home with their parents, new spouses must adjust to life with their partner, which inevitably involves some compromise. After the excitement associated with planning and celebrating a wedding, creating a household budget and dividing chores can seem mundane. Some young couples realize too late that they have very different feelings on children, religion or other fundamental issues.
While some husbands and wives might have trepidation about a how relatively quick divorce looks to their family and friends, staying in an unhappy relationship is not a good option. Moreover, marriages that last a few years are usually easier to unwind, especially if there are no children. Property division should be relatively simple, and if alimony is awarded at all, the obligation will likely not be very long.
As couples move beyond the initial years, those in the fifth through eighth years face different sets of obstacles. During this phase, the intensity of early romance may have waned, and couples might find themselves entrenched in routines that feel monotonous. The focus often shifts to career demands, raising children and other external pressures that can overshadow the spousal relationship. These years frequently require couples to renegotiate relationship dynamics, often without the intense emotional highs that characterized their early years.
The seventh and eighth years emerge as particularly critical because, by this point, long-standing issues that have been ignored or inadequately addressed tend to surface. Patterns of behavior, unmet expectations and unresolved conflicts from earlier years can accumulate, making it harder to mend fences. Additionally, any initial complacency in addressing personal or marital issues may now manifest more profoundly, causing couples to reassess their commitment.
Whether you’re seeking a divorce after four months or 40 years, Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C. will protect your interests and help you make a fresh start. Our accomplished Long Island attorneys handle all types of marriage dissolution matters. To schedule a consultation, please call 631-388-6009 or contact us online.