Understanding Marital Conflicts, Causes and Solutions in 2024

Marital conflicts occur when partners’ needs, desires, and wants remain unfulfilled, often exacerbated by self-centeredness, lack of understanding, and harsh criticism. Such conflicts can turn disastrous without timely intervention and mutual effort. Here are some key reasons behind marital conflicts:

Money Matters

Financial issues are a common source of marital tension. Couples often struggle to agree on budgeting and managing overall finances, leading to conflicts that can strain the relationship.

Sexual Life

Sexual dissatisfaction is a significant issue in many marriages. Lack of mutual respect and intimacy can create negative feelings, and some may use withholding sex as a means of control, fostering resentment and frustration.

In-Laws

Interference from in-laws can create a major rift in marriages. When one spouse’s parents meddle in the couple’s life, it can lead to tension and force a choice between family and spouse. Holding grudges against in-laws or demanding that a partner avoid their family can also lead to serious complications.

Responsibility

In Western countries, both partners often work, leading to clashes over household responsibilities. In Eastern countries, where women are typically housewives, conflicts arise when responsibilities are not respected or valued equally by both partners.

Children

The arrival of children brings joy and increased responsibilities. Disagreements on disciplining, diet, care, and education can become sources of conflict. The changing roles of mother and father need to be managed mutually to avoid arguments.

Lack of Communication

Poor or negative communication is a primary factor in marital disputes. Without mutual sharing of feelings and wants, emotions can become pent up and lead to sudden outbursts. Involving third parties like parents or friends often exacerbates the problem.

Friends and Relatives

Not all friends and relatives have the best interests of the couple at heart. It’s crucial to discern who supports the marital relationship and who might be secretly pleased to see it falter.

Unwelcoming Habits

Irritable habits such as smoking, lack of cleanliness, or constant comparisons can create friction. Addressing these habits thoughtfully can lead to positive changes.

Expectations About Marriage

The reality of marriage often differs from romanticized expectations. Unrealistic expectations, if not managed rationally, can lead to disappointment and complications in the relationship.

Personality Conflict

Certain personality traits can damage a marriage, such as extreme criticism, constant need for approval, perfectionism, and intense sensitivity. Recognizing and addressing these traits is crucial for marital harmony.

Conclusion

Marital problems are a natural part of any relationship. They test the couple’s resilience and commitment to overcoming challenges together. By understanding the root causes of conflicts and addressing them with patience and mutual respect, couples can strengthen their relationship and bring positivity into their lives.