Studies have found that divorce odds are higher when couples get married at a young age. Most studies will suggest putting it off until somewhere between the ages of 28 and 32. They cite significantly higher divorce odds for couples who get married in their teens or early 20s.
But why does this happen? Young couples often fervently believe that they can beat these odds and make it last, only to contribute to the statistics a few years down the road. Below are three reasons why this happens.
1. Financial troubles
First of all, some young married couples have trouble financially. They are not far enough along in their careers or may not have steady jobs. They’re used to living with their parents and the adjustment to living on their own – and supporting themselves – is too difficult.
2. Brain development
It’s also worth noting that human brain development continues until about age 25 when the frontal lobe finishes developing. In a very general sense, this just means that people can be much different at age 28 than they would be at age 18. These young couples sometimes grow up and find that they are now married to someone they would rather not be with.
3. Changing beliefs
This age is also when people go through a lot of changing beliefs. They may have different goals for their life. They may join or leave a religion. A person who grew up in a conservative rural area may adopt a more liberal perspective after moving to the city to go to college. Every situation is unique, but these changing beliefs can break down a relationship that previously worked.
If you are thinking about getting divorced in the future, take the time to carefully look into the legal steps that will be necessary.