Have you ever heard someone say that a person is not the marrying type or that they always thought a particular marriage would end badly? It turns out there may be something to this.
Dr. Helen Fisher, PhD, who is a biological anthropologist has a theory. She explains that there are four types of brain systems linked to personality. These are the dopamine, serotonin, testosterone and estrogen systems. She lays out how one of those in particular might increase the chances of divorce, and one lessen them.
The dopamine system
People who express highly on the dopamine system tend to be risk-takers. They tend to look for new experiences and be spontaneous and flexible in their thinking. Thus, it would not be surprising to see them get bored of a relationship and seek to end it. Or to seek new sexual experiences outside of their marriage which eventually results in their spouse divorcing them.
The serotonin system
People who express highly for the serotonin system tend to be more cautious and stick to social norms. Many are also religious. They are less likely to rock the boat by leaving a relationship or ending a marriage.
The combination of different personalities
Some personalities, however, you want to define them, do not go well together. Someone who loves risk may soon get bored of their risk-averse spouse constantly pulling them back. The risk-averse spouse may grow weary of their spouse’s inability to settle down and act in what they consider a responsible manner. One might want to go on a skydiving holiday, while the other believes they should stay at home and save the money in case the economy takes a downturn. Both may conclude that being married to each other is too much like hard work.
It does not matter whether others never expected your marriage to last or never thought you were the type to divorce. It’s your decision, and in both cases, legal guidance can help you make informed decisions.