ECONOMIC HARDSHIP and communication problems are causing increasing damage to relationships.
Research presented at a conference in Dublin yesterday suggested more couples are now citing financial difficulties as a problem, compared to the 1970s.
Relationships Ireland, which carried out an analysis of more than 13,000 case files over the past 50 years, said communication problems had also seen a significant rise, initially appearing in 38 per cent of cases but increasing to 85 per cent of cases.
Brendan Madden, the chief executive of the organisation, which provides assistance to those experiencing problems in personal relationships, attributed this to the impact of the “constant communication age” that distracts people from one-to-one communication.
In recent years, issues relating to past relationships – which now figure in 32 per cent of cases – and step-families – now occurring in 12 per cent of cases – were more prevalent.
Conflicts concerning parenting and roles within the family now affected 30 per cent of cases, which Mr Madden said reflected the “radical change” in traditional gender roles among younger couples.
“There is a greater expectation of male involvement in family life due to increasing female participation in the workforce.”
Alcohol and drug concerns, sexual problems and infidelity were all problems since Relationships Ireland began in 1962, Mr Madden said.
Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald said she was “acutely aware” of the importance of positive parental relationships in the lives of children and praised Relationships Ireland.
“Their work has played a valuable role in enhancing family well-being and supporting good relationships between parents.”