While it’s true that opposites can attract, major difference in personal views can be the downfall of a marriage. This is true of religious beliefs, thoughts on finances or marriage, and political views. With the extreme political divide rocking the nation, is it possible for a marriage to survive when partners are divided in their party views?
Looking at the Numbers
In an American Family Survey, most couples find their political views aligned. For Democrats, 82 percent of couples shared the same party affiliation as their spouse. That number is 91 percent for Republicans. Only nine percent for Democrats and three percent for Republicans found themselves in a marriage with someone who aligns with the opposite party.
The number of partners who cohabitate with such drastically different political affiliations is slim, and for good reason. Opposing views like these on any major subject often result in divorce. There are, however, ways to avoid that seemingly inevitable fate.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
For couples who find their marriages working despite such drastic differences, the secret is slowly making their way to the altar. It’s vital that couples take time to learn about one another before deciding to get married.
The euphoric feeling that comes with finding a quality partner can often cause couples to overlook such diametrically opposite views. In some cases, talks about politics and even finances are overlooked as couples relish in their happiness with one another. When these talks are saved for after marriage, the result is typically divorce.
Differences Are Enriching
Political leanings can define aspects of a person’s life no matter which side of the aisle they agree with. Stances on topics ranging from abortion to war and LGBTQ rights lead to heated debates, but they don’t have to.
Instead of heading to separation, where ideological views can even impact child custody, successful couples look at how their differences can be enriching. Accepting and understanding an opposing political view can quickly stop a fight before it begins. This act of understanding also allows couples to grow together and hold more respect for one another.
At the same time, it’s essential that couples remember they aren’t trying to convert one another. Accepting your partner for who they are, including their political beliefs, is a vital part of any marriage. While you may not agree with your spouse, you can respect their right to feel strongly about an issue.
Finding Common Ground
Finally, couples need to remember that there’s a lot more to a person than their political affiliation. Values ranging from raising children to how others should be treated, and spending habits are far more important.
While you can find common ground on the political battlefield, other values rarely offer such leeway. For instance, financial disagreements remain one of the top causes for divorce across the nation. Fights about child-rearing and family are more severe than disagreeing over how America should handle healthcare. If you can find common ground and respect one another’s differences, then you can make any marriage work.
