Each divorce in Oklahoma is unique and complex in its own manner. There are often many factors that lead a couple to decide that they are best off ending their marriage. The following are some major factors that studies have found have the potential to lead to divorce.

One very common factor that may lead to divorce is the birth of a child. One study shows that 67 percent of married spouses find that for the first three years of their child’s life, their satisfaction with their marriage goes down. Taking care of a newborn can be challenging, causing further stress on a marriage that may already be under pressure.

Another factor that may lead to divorce is when one spouse suffers a major illness. According to one study, the divorce rate is about six percent higher for couples who must cope with a wife’s serious illness, such as cancer. Not only is taking care of a seriously ill spouse difficult, but it could also be expensive and lead each spouse to suffer a loss of identity.

A third factor that may lead to divorce is a new job or unemployment. According to one study, if a husband finds himself unemployed, this could lead to a divorce. Furthermore, a job loss leads to financial stress and additional responsibilities by one spouse or the other that could cause emotions to run high and culminate in a dispute.

A fourth factor that may lead to divorce comes up when a couple lives apart. This may be the case for military families. One study showed that the length of the service member’s deployment could affect a couple’s risk of divorce. Feelings of abandonment could have a negative effect on one’s marriage.

These are only a few factors that could lead to a divorce. Other factors, such as infidelity, becoming empty-nesters or going through a traumatic event could put a strain on a marriage that ultimately ends it. That being said, sometimes the end of a marriage is what is necessary for a person to move on from an unhappy relationship, allowing for personal growth after a difficult life event.