Why Are Second Marriages More Likely to End Than First Ones?

It might seem obvious that people who are divorced would have learned some lessons about themselves and what they want from marriage that would make their next union successful. However, statistics show that second and subsequent marriages are more likely to end in divorce than first ones.

Why is that? Marriage therapists agree on several reasons why that is the case.

Many couples who are in second marriages have children with their previous spouse. Blended families can be stressful. Few replicate the “The Brady Bunch.” Splitting time with your children with your own ex can be difficult enough. When your spouse is doing the same and you’re both trying to bond with your new stepchildren, it can take a toll on the marriage.

People in second marriages generally have more assets than they did when they married the first time. That can be an advantage. However, it can also put one spouse at a disadvantage compared to the other. When couples with significant assets marry, there can actually be more arguments about money than if you’re both starting out with little.

Many second marriages stem from a relationship that began before one or both of the people were out of their previous marriage. This can cause trust issues that continue into the new marriage. After all, if someone cheated on his or her spouse with you, how do you know that the pattern won’t continue?

If you’re going into a second or subsequent marriage, it’s essential to protect your assets and ensure that your children will be provided for in case of a divorce. A prenuptial agreement can help you protect what you and your family have.

Source: Huffington Post, “Second Marriages Are More Likely To End In Divorce. Here’s Why,” Brittany Wong, accessed March 30, 2017