Society is changing at a rapid pace and with it, traditional gender norms are changing too.  Just a few decades ago, men were still considered primary breadwinners of a family while women were expected to place their home life above everything else. Women are soaring in their careers, men taking a break to care for children, and all norms are brushed aside with emphasis on individual preferences.

Unfortunately, this change is jarring for people who still believe in traditional gender roles. This can lead to a divorce and is a common underlying reason for it as well. While divorce rates have actually dropped in recent years, there are still a large number of marriages that end in it. Here are some reasons why you might be more likely to encounter this situation:

1. One partner expects traditional gender norms within marriage

It’s common for couples who haven’t lived together or haven’t had discussions on gender equality. If one partner expects a traditional balance while the other doesn’t, the relationship can end. Unfortunately, most people don’t even realize this is a problem until they spend a few months or even years together. For example, a wife might expect her husband to carry all financial obligations while she focuses on family. If the husband isn’t on board with that,  the relationship can become strained. The opposite is also true and more common, where husbands expect wives to take care of the home while they focus on their careers.

2. Religious differences

Differences in religious beliefs can lead to a stressful relationship, even in same-faith marriages. For example, if one spouse is more religiously inclined than the other, differences of opinion can cause problems. Most people underestimate this, believing religious arguments can be overcome but statistics show otherwise. It is also apparent that individuals, especially women, brought up in religious households are more likely to stay within a marriage than those who are atheist or raised without serious religious education.

3. Didn’t establish equality

Couples who don’t establish equality early in their relationships often find themselves facing a divorce. Signs are usually apparent during the dating phase as different people come in with different expectations. If equality isn’t established early, it can cause a lot of problems later on. For example, if a woman doesn’t establish her willingness to share responsibility, showcase her focus on her career, and express her expectation to be treated as an equal, it can be difficult to bring those factors up in marriage.

4. Changes in finances

Finances can be a tricky aspect of any relationship, no matter how secure. Men have been taught from childhood that they must earn and support their family. They want to earn more than their wives and believe a higher income means they’re the breadwinners of a family. This has changed as women work, break glass ceilings, and campaign for equal pay. Many wives earn more than their husbands and that can be a problem in many relationships.

These problems can be resolved with the help of some communication but sometimes it’s healthier to get a divorce. Couples who find the middle ground and come to a reasonable compromise, often end or continue their relationship amicably.