Reasons for the Higher Divorce Rate Among Couples Who Split Chores Evenly

Recently, a study was released from Norway that suggested that couples who split household chores equally are about 50 percent more likely to get divorced than those who don’t divide them up. Of course, there are a lot of people who disagree with the findings based on personal experience, but that doesn’t dismiss the study completely. Get an explanation of the findings if you are curious why the results turned out this way.

Couples May Argue Over How Chores Are Done

One possible reason for the higher divorce rate when couples share chores is that they might end up bickering over whether the job is done correctly. This is especially the case when one person normally completes the job, but their spouse suddenly starts doing it, too. For example, if you are used to folding the laundry, you might become frustrated with how your spouse folds the sheets and towels. If you usually unload the dishwasher and your spouse tries to do it instead, he or she may end up putting the plates, cups, and utensils in the wrong place.

You may be able to avoid conflict by first showing your spouse how to do the job the way you prefer. Of course, you can always choose to ignore the details and just be glad your spouse is suddenly interested in helping you. He or she may pick up on how to do the job your way within time. Another option is for you to stick to the dishes and laundry while your spouse takes care of vacuuming or even doing the outdoor jobs, such as mowing the lawn and pulling weeds. This way, you each have your own chores that you can do any way you’d like.

Less Dependence on Each Other Means Higher Divorce Rates

Those involved with the study claim that another reason for the results is that the couples who share chores tend to be more modern. For example, the woman usually works outside the home, which means she is not dependent on her husband for income, which could increase her chance of initiating divorce when she is not happy. Additionally, a man who realizes he can keep the house clean and cook meals without his wife may feel less dependent on her, possibly increasing his chance of requesting a divorce.

The Mentality of Splitting Everything Down the Middle May Ruin a Marriage

Finally, some experts say a marriage in which both people keep score of what each person does is more like a business partnership than a relationship. This type of marriage is unlikely to last long since there is less of a chance arguments will be solved harmoniously. When people do the chores that need to get done, rather than keeping track of who has done what and then comparing, the marriage may be more peaceful. This is why you might remember you are splitting chores to help each other out, not compete.

Whether chores have something to do with your marriage struggles or the problems lie elsewhere, come to Brian D. Perskin & Associates P.C. if you are considering divorce. We can tell you what you need to know regarding divorce in New York.

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