2026 Most Common Causes of Divorce

Divorce is one of the most difficult transitions in life, and it rarely happens for just one reason. While every relationship is unique, research into what makes marriages struggle has revealed some common patterns in why couples decide to call it quits. From communication breakdowns to financial strain and substance abuse, understanding these common causes can offer valuable insight. If you or a loved one is considering divorce, do not hesitate to contact our Murfreesboro divorce lawyer at The Law Office of David L. Scott.

Lack of Commitment

When one spouse feels that the other is not committed to their relationship, a persistent fear can loom over the relationship. In a 2013 study published in Couple and Family Psychology, 75% of divorced individuals surveyed cited a lack of commitment as a major reason their marriage ended, making it the most commonly reported cause in the study. Some participants stated that the commitment within the marriage eroded to the point that there was not enough to sustain it. While a lack of romance can slowly creep into a marriage, a drastic drop in commitment can occur due to negative events, such as infidelity.

Infidelity

In the same study, 59.6% of individuals cited infidelity as a major contributing factor to their divorce. Whether a one-time occurrence or a long-term affair, infidelity was shown to be a turning point in an already deteriorating relationship, and it was among the most frequently cited “final straw” reasons that led directly to the decision to divorce.

Marrying Too Young

Marrying too young was cited as a contributing factor by 45.1% of individuals in the study. Some participants stated they wished they had dated longer to get to know their partner better before marrying. Broader research on marriage age similarly shows an increased risk of divorce for couples who marry before age 25.

Financial Issues

Financial problems can place significant strain on any relationship. In the study, 36.7% of individuals identified financial issues as a major contributor to their divorce. While financial strain is often the tipping point, some individuals noted that money problems were tied to other underlying issues in the marriage.

Alcohol and Drug Addiction

Substance abuse affects thousands of families, and 34.6% of individuals in the study identified it as a major factor in the end of their marriage. Study participants noted that the problem was often minimized during the marriage, or that the partner struggling with substance use refused to seek treatment.

Domestic Abuse

Domestic violence, which can involve physical and/or emotional abuse, was cited by 23.5% of individuals as a major reason their relationship ended. Participants noted that abuse often develops gradually, with the situation becoming unsustainable by the time the marriage ended.

Speak with Our Murfreesboro Divorce Attorney Today

Even though a marriage may appear blissful, tensions can lie underneath the surface. When issues that have been brewing for a while boil over, the marriage may collapse. At The Law Office of David L. Scott, our Murfreesboro divorce lawyer brings both compassion and experience to the table. With more than 25 years of experience helping divorced persons, we are dedicated to helping individuals reach a resolution regarding divorce and other related issues.

To schedule your confidential consultation, feel free to reach out to our office online or by calling (615) 896-7656.