The term “the seven-year itch” refers to a popular belief that couples inherently start to experience dissatisfaction in their marriages after about seven years – ultimately leading some to stray and others to exit their relationships altogether.
As it turns out, studies indicate that it’s closer to the eight-year mark when that happens, although times vary.
What drives this cultural phenomenon?
Psychologists say, in essence, that it takes about that long for a relationship to become routine and predictable – which isn’t a bad thing until it becomes stifling to one or both partners. As people mature, their ideals, goals and hopes may also shift, and they may start to feel unfilled in a marriage that feels like it is stuck in a rut. When the relationship doesn’t make room for changing needs, it can fracture from within.
Another issue is complacency: The longer a couple is together, the easier it is to fall into the trap of thinking that the relationship can stumble along under its own power, without deliberate effort to keep the romance and partnership alive. Both parties may settle into preoccupations with work, children and other commitments, ultimately neglecting their emotional connections with each other.
It’s been said that there’s no constant in life except change – and that’s true when it comes to marriages, as well. If your marriage is no longer meeting your needs, it may be time to consider the alternatives. Learning more about your legal options in a divorce may help you make an informed decision about your future.