The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic extended far beyond stay-at-home orders and attempts to work from home and school our children remotely while trying to avoid exposure to the coronavirus. The impact of the pandemic caused us to reevaluate our home lives. Were we happy? Did we enjoy our partner’s company, or did it simply add to the stress that came with the pandemic?
As couples navigated these questions, many found themselves considering divorce.
Those in this situation are not alone. In March of 2020, individuals who expressed interest in divorce jumped 34% higher compared to the same period the previous year. This left many to wonder what fuels divorce and whether the statistics have changed in recent years. The following delves into these issues by highlighting three important statistics.
#1: Top reasons for divorce
The United States Census Bureau reports that 43% of all divorces are the result of incompatibility, 28% due to infidelity and 22% because of money issues.
#2: Rates surge in March
The rate of divorce filings spike in March and stay high through August. Experts have speculated that this spike is often after those who are considering divorce choose to wait until after the holiday season or to give the marriage one more try in the New Year before they decide to file for divorce.
#3: Oklahoma has some of the highest divorce rates in the nation
Second only to Arkansas, Oklahoma reports 10.4 divorce per 1,000. Experts note that those who marry at a younger age are at a higher risk of divorce. A couple that marries when they are 20 to 25 years of age is 60% likely to end their marriage in divorce. As a result, the lower average marriage age of marriage in Oklahoma compared to other states is one likely reason for its higher divorce rate.
If you are considering divorce, it is a good idea to reach out to legal counsel. An attorney can discuss your options and advocate for your interests during the divorce process.