As much as we hate to admit it, money makes a huge difference in the dynamic of a relationship; often times it can even be the root cause of a breakup—as HEALTH finds out.

The Issue
The fact is one of the most frequently cited reasons for a breakup is financial constraints. There are several issues surrounding money that couples fight about. For example, a couple may fight about how to spend money as to one person in the couple, security means having money in the bank, where to the other, it may mean a big house. The couple may also argue about whether they should invest or save.

Tips to Coping with Money Issues in Your Relationship

•  The ideal way to deal with money is to understand your issues surrounding money and to communicate and understand your partner’s issues.
• It is also important to talk about financial issues; if you cannot talk about them on your own, then talk about them in the company of a therapist or a financial planner.
• While talking about financial issues try not to play the “blame game”, but instead try to come with a plan that meets both of your needs.
• When making a financial decision, it should not be based on the person’s contribution to the family bank account—it should not matter who is making more money or if one of the partners is stay-at-home; instead, the couple should have equal say in the financial decisions.