The Biggest Reasons for Relationship Breakups
Relationships don’t always last. Issues arise, misunderstandings occur, and eventually, many couples end up separating. But what are the most common reasons for breakups? The dynamics of relationship problems vary across different regions, influenced by cultural norms, societal expectations, and even lifestyle differences.
Having worked with couples from various backgrounds, I have observed that the reasons for relationship struggles in the West differ significantly from those in the Subcontinent. In the West, one of the major reasons for relationship breakdowns is the lack of household help and support from extended family members. Meanwhile, in the Subcontinent (Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh), the leading cause is often related to in-laws, followed closely by infidelity. Let’s explore these issues in more detail.
1. The Impact of Household Responsibilities in the West
In Western societies, couples often struggle with everyday household chores. Unlike in the Subcontinent, where families commonly have domestic help, people in the West must handle all household tasks themselves. This can lead to conflicts over responsibilities.
Many couples argue over simple Reasons:
Who will do the laundry?
Who will wash the dishes?
Who will clean the house?
These tasks may seem trivial to those living in the Subcontinent, where household help is readily available. However, in Western cultures, these disagreements can escalate to the point where they become serious relationship problems. When one partner feels they are doing more than the other, resentment builds up, leading to constant arguments and, in many cases, divorce.
2. The Role of Family and In-Laws in the Subcontinent
In contrast to the West, where couples live more independently, the Subcontinent has a strong family-oriented culture. While this can be a source of support, it is also a leading cause of relationship problems. Based on my observations, in-laws are the number one cause of breakups in the Subcontinent.
Common issues include:
Interference from parents and extended family members in the couple’s personal matters.
Pressure from in-laws regarding financial responsibilities, lifestyle choices, or even having children.
Conflicts between the spouse and the in-laws, leading to emotional stress.
In many cases, a husband may feel torn between his wife and his parents, leading to tension in the marriage. Similarly, a wife may struggle to adjust to the expectations placed on her by her husband’s family. These ongoing conflicts often lead to separation or divorce.
3. Infidelity: The Growing Reasons
While cheating is a common reason for breakups worldwide, it ranks as the second most common cause of divorce in the Subcontinent. The increasing use of social media and easy access to communication have made it easier for people to engage in extramarital affairs.
Infidelity in relationships can happen for many reasons:
Emotional neglect – When one partner feels ignored or unappreciated, they may seek attention elsewhere.
Lack of physical intimacy – If a couple is not physically or emotionally connected, one partner may look for that connection outside the relationship.
Temptation and opportunity – Social media, workplace interactions, and online dating apps have made it easier than ever to connect with new people.
While infidelity is a major issue, it is still not the number one reason for divorces in the Subcontinent—in-laws take that spot.
Final Thoughts
Relationship dynamics vary greatly based on geography, culture, and lifestyle. While Western couples often struggle with balancing household responsibilities, couples in the Subcontinent face challenges related to family interference and societal expectations.
Understanding these differences is crucial for addressing relationship problems effectively. Whether it’s learning better communication skills, setting boundaries with in-laws, or dividing household tasks fairly, couples must find ways to navigate these challenges if they want their relationships to succeed.
