New Study Suggests Divorce Could Have Genetic Link

Originally published by Austin TX Family Law Blog.

Why are the children of divorced parents more likely to divorce themselves?

Researchers across the nation have long sought to uncover a reason why so many married couples get divorced. It is estimated that between 40 and 50 percent of all marriages today end in divorce. Psychologists have long theorized that the children of divorced parents are more likely to divorce themselves later in life due to witnessing and experiencing divorce. Now, however, a new study suggests that it may not be growing up with divorced parents that leads many to divorce; rather, the likelihood of divorce could actually be genetically linked.

Examining Divorce Histories in Sweden

Researchers from Lund University in Sweden and Virginia Commonwealth University teamed up to examine whether the divorce histories of adopted children more closely resembled their adoptive parents or biological parents. Researchers combed through Swedish population registries to gather data. By comparing adopted children to their adoptive and biological parents, researchers could uncover whether divorce rates are more environmentally influenced or stem from genetics.

The results of the study were somewhat surprising. The data analyzed suggested that genetic factors were the primary reason as to why divorce runs in families. Uncovering that genetics are significant in influencing divorce could have major implications for psychologists. Whereas therapists once considered patients’ histories with divorce when analyzing their motivation for divorce or attempting to repair a broken marriage, therapists might now change their counseling approach to appreciate the genetic component of divorce.

Causes of Divorce

Divorce rates have fallen since a high in the 1980’s, but remain high across the nation. Divorce can occur for a wide variety of reasons, with some of the most common causes of divorceincluding:

• Infidelity
• Money
• Arguing
• Lack of communication
• Unrealistic expectations
• Lack of equality
• Lack of intimacy

Anyone in Texas who is considering divorce should contact a divorce attorney for assistance. Divorce is a complex process that can turn litigious quickly. In a divorce, you and your spouse will need to deal with tough issues like the division of your marital property, child custody, and child support. Your divorce lawyer will serve as your strongest advocate in guiding you through the divorce towards an amicable settlement or a victory in court.

Curated by Texas Bar Today. Follow us on Twitter @texasbartoday.

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