In the majority of cases, when a relationship shows signs of having problems, couples begin finding ways to make improvements. However, despite efforts made by one or both individuals, sometimes the relationship is beyond repair. There are various characteristics that occur in relationships or marriages that indicate the end of the union.
Lack of Communication
Problems within a relationship cannot be resolved without honest and open communication. When couples reach a point when conversations involve nothing more than surface chatter, the relationship is experiencing serious trouble. The end is near when one or both individuals share their relationship concerns with other people and not with their partner.
Inadequate Effort
One person cannot hold a relationship together. While many couples face a myriad of traumatic life events, the relationship survives the trauma because both individuals remain committed to weathering the storm and support each other. When one person continually expresses concerns and desires to make the effort to fix the problems but the other individual refuses to put forth any effort, the end is likely forthcoming. Counselors warn that if resolutions do not occur before a year passes, the individuals involved are better off dissolving the union.
Uncoupling
When a marriage or a relationship is coming to a close, the couple is typically disconnected from one another. Couples generally share responsibility in daily issues ranging from household chores to rearing children. They support each other concerning personal and professional activities. When couples begin venturing into opposite directions, this is a sign of uncoupling. They no longer spend time together. One or both individuals preoccupy free time by staying later at work, away from home with friends or engage in other activities. One or both may also feel relieved when away from their partner.
Loss of Respect
In a healthy relationship, each individual demonstrates respect for the other person. If one partner loses respect for their partner, they may adopt a condescending attitude, dismiss their partner's opinions, wants and needs. Despite pleadings from the other person, the guilty party commonly refuses to discuss the matter. Compromise and self-sacrifice for the benefit of a partner ends. Individuals might also lack civility toward each other. The union has reached the point of being toxic and are sure signs the relationship is over.
Infidelity
Statistics indicate that in 41 percent of marriages, one or both spouses admitted to cheating emotionally or physically. When surveyed, 57 percent of men admitted to cheating on the other person while married or in previous non-marital relationships. Similarly, 54 percent of women admitted to being unfaithful while dating or while married. Although many couples work through and overcome the situation, relationship experts advise that individuals should be suspicious of a partner who insists on remaining friends with a former lover.
