Marriages Falling Victim to Political Discord

 Posted on September 25, 2018 in Divorce

The political war between conservatives and liberals can claim several marriages as among its casualties. The media and public are noticing more divorces caused by political disagreements between the spouses. A recent study found that:

• 29 percent of the respondents believed political differences are causing tension in their marriages or relationships;
• 11 percent divorced or ended their relationship due to their political differences; and
• 22 percent of millennials divorced or ended their relationship due to their political differences.

Your marriage can work if you are on the opposite end of the political spectrum from your spouse, but couples are finding it more difficult to avoid the issue.

‘The Trump Effect’

Many people identify the political rise and election of President Donald Trump as a flashpoint in political divisiveness between couples. The president has polarizing views on political and societal issues, and many people either vehemently oppose or enthusiastically support the views. There have been well-publicized stories about spouses ending their marriages because one person voted for Trump in the election or supports his policies. Trump’s presidency has increased political discussions among friends and family, but the worsening political divisions started before he took office:

• People feel personally threatened when faced with an opinion that opposes their own.
• The internet and social media allow people to avoid opinions that they disagree with;
• People frame opposite political opinions as bad instead of different; and
• People are less willing to have civil discussions about issues.

Politics and Marriage

You likely have friends, family members or co-workers who have vastly different political views. You can limit your interaction with people with whom you have fundamental disagreements about issues that are important to you. You cannot ignore or avoid when your spouse has a different political opinion. You want your spouse to have political views that are compatible with your own, but trying to change your spouse’s opinion will likely increase conflict. The only way a marriage between people with opposing political views can survive is if both spouses can still respect each other while disagreeing. You must acknowledge the validity of your spouse’s opinion and decide that you will not take personal offense.

Your Choice

You are not wrong if you decide to divorce your spouse because of his or her political views. Your political values are part of your compatibility in your marriage. A Kane County divorce attorney at Goostree Law Group can lead you through the divorce process. To schedule a free consultation, call 630-584-4800.

Source:

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/trump-presidency-destroying-marriages-country-article-1.3386982