It is only natural for married couples to fight now and then. Sometimes, these disagreements are resolved through a good conversation or even in marriage counseling.
At other times, communication between a couple is so toxic that they cannot overcome their differences. Recent research reports that four types of communication breakdowns can be highly indicative of divorce.
The research
One researcher claims the following four types of communication breakdowns can be strong signs that a couple will ultimately end their marriage:
- Being overly critical or making general assumptions
- Acting defensive
- Giving the silent treatment
- Showing contempt
It is easy to see how these toxic communication habits can wear down a relationship over time. But in the end, some marriages cannot be saved. If so, getting a divorce is often the most logical option.
How does a divorce work?
If communication breakdowns have led you to consider divorce, you likely want to know how the divorce process works. First, either you or your spouse will file for divorce in the county where one or both of you have resided for six months or more. In your petition for divorce, you will state the legal grounds on which your divorce is based and what divorce issues, such as property division, alimony, child custody and/or child support, you want the court to settle.
Your petition for divorce will be served on your spouse, and you spouse will have the opportunity to file an answer to the petition. In their answer, they will state their position on the requests you made in the petition for divorce and offer their counter-requests. After that, you, your spouse and your attorneys will likely try to negotiate your divorce issues and reach a settlement. Part of this process is disclosing all income, assets and debts. Affidavits may be executed and depositions may be taken.
If you and your spouse can reach an out-of-court settlement, you can present it to the court. If approved, your divorce will be finalized. If you and your spouse cannot reach an out-of-court settlement, you will have a hearing with a judge. The judge will issue a ruling on all of your divorce legal issues, and your divorce will be finalized.
