When it comes to risk factors for divorce, many Americans are aware that infidelity, constant fighting, and financial problems all increase the likelihood of a marriage falling apart.
However, there are many other factors that also increase the chances of a marriage ending in divorce.
In fact, statistics show that family planning (such as the decision to have children, and the interval between births) directly affects the likelihood of divorce.
To that end, if you are thinking about having children, it is important to think about how best to grow your family – especially if your marriage has been experiencing difficulties.
Looking at birth intervals and the odds of divorce
According to research that was published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s website, there is a link between short birth intervals and the likelihood that a couple will file for divorce.
This study found that shorter birth intervals lead to a greater chance of a couple’s marriage falling apart.
Indeed, this study also found that couples who spaced the births of their children four or more years apart were more likely to stay together than couples who had children less than 1.5 years apart.
Looking at family planning and marital health
Without question, there are various ways in which children affect a marriage.
Although having children can often strengthen a couple’s marriage, in all events raising children is difficult, and places strain on the partnership in unexpected ways.
If you and your spouse are having relationship difficulties, and are reconsidering your future together, contact Bashian P.C. to see what solutions we may be able to offer.
