Divorce is common across Texas, and military families are no exception. The demands and challenges unique to military life often contribute to the higher divorce rates seen among these families.
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of divorce among military couples.
Frequent deployments
Frequent and lengthy deployments of service members are common causes of stress for military families. Deployments can range from a few months to a year or more, and this extended time apart can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which may strain the marital relationship.
Financial hardships
Military families often face financial difficulties. Service members may not earn high salaries, and frequent moves may make it challenging for spouses to establish stable careers.
Lack of support
Frequent moves mean military families are often far from their extended families and support networks, which may prove isolating. The absence of a strong support system makes it more difficult for couples to resolve conflicts and otherwise navigate the challenges that arise in marriage.
Limited time together
Even when a service member is not on deployment, he or she may face demanding work schedules and training requirements. This limited time together often strains the emotional connection between spouses.
Infidelity
Separation caused by deployments and frequent relocations may lead to infidelity in military marriages. The emotional and physical distance between spouses can create opportunities for affairs to occur.
While divorce is common among professionals who work in many different capacities, past and present military members have the highest divorce rate of any professional in any field, with approximately 88% of active military members noting their status as divorced.
