10 Common Types of Problems in Marriage

Every marriage will go through its ups and downs, but some marital problems are more common than others. From communication breakdowns to financial concerns, couples can face a range of issues that can be difficult to work through. Here, we look at 10 of the most common types of problems in marriage—and tips for how you and your spouse can start to work towards a healthier relationship.

Communicating Poorly (Or Not at All).

Poor communication is a common struggle for married couples, and it’s often a main cause of many other problems. If you and your spouse are having trouble communicating, it can lead to misunderstandings, unresolved issues, and feelings of loneliness and isolation in the marriage. To start tackling this problem in your own marriage, take time to practice active listening when your partner speaks, focus on understanding each other’s different perspectives, actively express appreciation for one another and take time out from stressful conversations to cool down.

Money Troubles.

Money troubles often arise in marriages, particularly when couples don’t agree on how to spend and save. Financial issues can create tension, resentment and frustration in a marriage, so it’s important to tackle this problem head-on. Practicing good money management, setting achievable financial goals and having open discussions about finances are key steps towards resolving money issues in your marriage.

Loss of Intimacy and Connection.

Intimacy and connection is a cornerstone of a successful marriage, yet life’s many demands can put your closer relationship on the back burner. Every couple should aim to set aside some time each month to really connect with each other, such as taking a weekend trip together or having dinner out without the kids. Also, don’t forget that small daily acts of kindness will help bring you close together and strengthen your bond.

Negative Effects of Technology on Communication.

Technology has undoubtedly changed the way couples communicate, for better and for worse. It’s become much easier to stay connected with our partners throughout the day, but that can come at a cost. For example, many couples find it challenging to keep face-to-face conversations when they’re constantly sending text messages or checking various devices. This can lead to an increase in misunderstandings and frustration, as well as disconnection. To foster healthy communication in your relationship, make sure you give each other the time and attention you need — free of technology distractions.

Emotional Trauma from the Past or Present.

If one or both partners in a marriage is dealing with emotional trauma from their past or present, it can have a significant negative impact on the relationship. When one partner is in pain, it’s not uncommon for the other to take the blame–even if they weren’t directly responsible. This can further complicate matters because now the couple has to navigate through a new layer of painful emotions: hurt, guilt and shame. To help address these issues, couples should seek professional counseling and/or therapy to facilitate healthy communication and resolution of conflicts.