The Psychology of Money Arguments in Relationships

Most likely we’ve all heard of couples arguing about money.  You can see it at grocery stores, over dinner tables or on vacations while laying down on the beach.  It turns out, arguing about money is very common.  In a survey by Orion 42% of U.S. adults said they have disagreements about money with their partners, and 27% said it happened weekly or monthly.  The five most common reasons couples fight about money are: Fears about market risk and the economy (35%). Whether to spend for today or save for tomorrow (29%). The importance of money in our lives (17%). How to communicate about money (10%). Whether money is best spent on self or significant other (9%).

A study from Carleton University analyzed over 1,000 posts from a relationship forum on Reddit, identifying recurring patterns in money conflicts.  The study found that couples who argue about specific expenditures tend to fare better in their relationship than those who have fundamental differences in their spending habits.  

Sometimes money arguments might be a sign of other troubles in the relationship. Psychologists recommend the best way to resolve the differences is to openly discuss big money decisions. This includes retirement savings, big purchases such as cars, children school etc.  An open and honest discussion and working towards shared values are the best way to achieve a harmonious long lasting relationship