Telltale Signs of Troubled Marriages

There is no consensus regarding the factors that produce a happy marriage. Indeed, there are many and diverse positive characteristics that couples have discovered to make their marriages meaningful, satisfying, and mutually fulfilling. While certain themes tend to emerge in studying happy marriages not all happy marriages have all of the same positive traits in common. There are many paths to marital bliss.  On the other hand, marriage researchers have known for decades that there are specific and solidly defined factors that are accurate predictors for marital failure. In fact, a doomed relationship can be predicted with over 90% accuracy when specific negative traits are present. Nearly all failed marriages can be attributed in some way to one or more of four well-documented characteristics.

Why Marriages Fail

Countless research studies and other investigations have been performed in order to gain insight into the reasons that marriages fail.  Part of the rationale for such research is that if information can be learned about problems, struggles, and the like that play a role in the dissolution of marriages then more attention can be given to identifying, preventing, and navigating through these difficult issues - thereby saving marriages.  Individuals who are sincerely committed to their partner and truly desire for their marriage to succeed can learn much from this type of information because it reveals areas to avoid and/or exercise caution.

Marriage and Personal Freedom

One area with which many couples struggle in their marriages – especially early on – is the issue of personal freedom. When two people get married are they to abandon social life outside of the marriage? Should partners have personal interests and pursuits that do not involve one another? What exactly are the appropriate limits on personal space after you tie the knot? This brief article addresses these and related questions.

More Forms of Control in Marriage

Attempting to control one’s spouse – whether purposely or unintentionally – is a sure way to erode affection in the relationship and eventually destroy it. Yet many couples unwittingly do this very thing. People selfishly endeavor to get their spouses to comply with their wishes. But, in the process they lose their mate’s heart as he/she becomes resentful and emotionally distant. In reality, nothing good can come of seeking to have this kind of power over one’s partner.

Forms of Control in Marriage

One of the easiest ways to destroy a marriage is for one to attempt to control his/her spouse – or for both partners to try to control each other. Yet, the problem of power and control is one of the hidden issues that affect a great number of relationships. Forms of control often exist without the couple even becoming aware of what is happening. This is because control takes many subtle forms.  Furthermore, most people have little insight regarding their propensity to be a controller.  Unfortunately, there are several attitudes and behaviors adopted by many that are aimed at controlling their mate – whether they realize it or not.