While some people are fiercely dedicated to individual life, human nature and evolutionary biology mean that the vast majority of people yearn for an intimate relationship.
However, maintaining a good relationship is not easy. About 40 percent of first marriages fail , while later marriages have even less chance of success. The reasons are as varied as the people, but here are 6 of the most common relationship problems that lead to a breakup.
1. Trust issues
The trust is absolutely essential for companionship and intimacy that hold together the relationships. However, it is also one of the hardest things to earn and maintain. Trust issues range from financial options to emotional trustworthiness.
Often, there is an underlying problem that was never fully discussed and resolved, lived situations that were best left in the “forgotten” and not mentioned to avoid arguments but that were kept saved. Over time, these unresolved issues can continue into your everyday relationship, casting a cloud of suspicion and doubt over even the most mundane situations.
2. Infidelity and jealousy
While trust can be broken in many facets of a relationship, suspected or confirmed infidelity can be the hardest to overcome. From emotional affairs to physical encounters, infidelity tends to destroy almost half of the relationships it impacts. Even if they decide to stay together, learning to rebuild what they had before is an uphill and emotionally draining experience.
This is equally true in cases where no affair occurred, but charges were brought. Because cheating is such a devastating experience, being falsely accused can feel like an intense personal attack, destroying trust and intimacy. It is absolutely critical that you avoid making unproven accusations, and that you adequately discuss any fears or doubts you have in a non-threatening and open manner.
3. Communication problems
Many couples struggle with communication, often claiming to speak different languages. However, a lack of communication can lead a once close couple to start operating in completely different spheres, living more like roommates than a couple.
Over time, you will begin to feel isolated and lonely, and you may seek emotional intimacy elsewhere. The lack of communication also can lead to contempt , or the tendency of every meaningful conversation becomes sarcasm and contempt instead of a healthy resolution.
4. Lack of balance
The relationships imbalanced are particularly common among young couples and those with new children or elderly parents, but they can happen to anyone. Imbalance occurs when one or both partners do not prioritize the relationship, instead of giving unusual importance to other people or other situations.
It is normal for relationships to go and flow, and in times of crisis it is natural for the relationship to take a back seat. However, when it becomes a problem, it is when one of the members begins to constantly feel taken for granted, not listened to or undervalued.
Some examples of imbalance that can destroy a relationship include: a partner going on vacation alone with parents or friends, a partner drinking with friends every night after work, or a partner making all decisions about the holidays. Even when you face problems outside of your relationship, make sure to communicate frequently with your partner.
5. Compatibility issues
Opposites can attract, but it is extremely difficult to maintain a relationship of opposites together. Basic compatibility in things such as values and worldview is essential for a comfortable and long-lasting relationship. If they are radically different, respect and commitment are absolutely critical.
Everything, even the smallest things, could be a difficult point for couples without basic compatibility. Over time, only stubborn and dedicated partners can overcome major compatibility issues.
6. Abusive behavior
Abuse should never be tolerated in any relationship , but abusive behaviors tend to increase in relationships. Anger, disrespect, and emotional obstruction can’t end relationships on their own, but ongoing patterns can wear people down.
The inability or unwillingness to respect a partner’s thoughts, beliefs, and feelings can destroy trust and intimacy in any relationship.
While these common relationship problems can destroy relationships, they can also be opportunities to get your relationship back on track and come as a red flag. If you and your partner are facing difficulties, consider seeking the advice of a professional counselor. If both people are willing and able to face their own responsibilities in the situation, with a lot of hard work, the relationship can often be saved.