Job changes can have a dramatic impact on someone’s relationship. A person’s employment plays a big role in their life, and any sudden changes can have a ripple effect in other areas.
For example, some studies have found that a person’s odds of divorcing increase if they lose their job. Stability in employment equals stability in marriage, these studies suggest.
In one case, there was a 54% increase in divorce odds if a plant closed, meaning that there were layoffs affecting numerous workers. If an employee was dismissed from their position specifically, the risk was even higher, at 74%. In both cases, job loss can lead to financial strain and other issues that may, in turn, lead to divorce.
A long commute
Another issue to consider is if one person takes a job that has a long commute. According to one study, a couple’s divorce odds go up by 40% if that commute exceeds 45 minutes. The couple spends a significant amount of time apart, and this affects their relationship.
One thing to note is that divorce odds change most dramatically when this is a new development. If someone used to have a short commute and then takes a job with a long commute, the divorce odds go up. But couples who had been living with a long commute for years did not see the same divorce odds, as they had already adjusted to it.
This helps to show how changes to your employment situation could be red flags for divorce. If your marriage does end, be sure you know what legal options you have.