We all dream of finding that one lifelong partner, but the truth is, long-term love takes more than chemistry. According to data from Europe in 2017, there were roughly 2 divorces for every 1,000 people—and that number isn’t dropping. But here’s the good news: scientists have actually found early predictors that can indicate whether a marriage might crumble.

Let’s dive into 9 unexpected, research-backed signs that your relationship could be headed for trouble—some of which might already be in your photo album, bedroom, or even your tone of voice.

Video: 12 Early Signs A Relationship Won’t Last

A Childhood Smile Could Say More Than You Think

Psychologists have looked into the idea that your facial expressions as a child might predict your future in love. In one fascinating study, researchers examined college yearbook photos and ranked smiles on a scale from 1 to 10. What they found was startling—people with the biggest smiles had the lowest divorce rates.

Those with gloomy or neutral expressions were five times more likely to split. Why? It turns out that genuine smiles reflect underlying emotional stability and social connection—two things that matter deeply in long-term relationships.

It’s Not What You Say—It’s How You Say It

Ever had a fight and noticed your partner’s tone felt more cutting than the words themselves? Scientists say that matters more than we think. Researchers analyzed the vocal patterns of couples seeing marriage counselors and followed them for five years. Using a computer model that tracked pitch, volume, and vocal tremors, they predicted divorce with nearly 80% accuracy.

A harsh tone, even if the words sound neutral, can chip away at emotional intimacy. Think of it like background noise that never turns off—it drains you over time.

Too Many Opposite-Sex Coworkers? That Might Be a Problem

A Danish study found that people who work mostly around members of the opposite sex are 15% more likely to get divorced. Why? Temptation, emotional entanglements, and blurred boundaries can creep in quietly.

This isn’t about being jealous—it’s about being mindful. Relationships need trust, but they also need awareness of risk. If your partner’s always “just having lunch” with someone they’re a little too close to, it might be worth a second thought.

Your Mom’s Relationship Habits Could Predict Yours

We like to think we make our own choices in love, but patterns often run deeper than we realize. A study of 7,000 people found that many adults mimic their mothers’ relationship patterns—especially women. If your mom moved from one relationship to another or had a history of divorce, you might unconsciously repeat the same behaviors.

This doesn’t mean your fate is sealed—but it’s worth recognizing if you’re following a script that’s not really yours.

Video:
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Avoiding Conflict Doesn’t Keep the Peace—It Builds Distance

John Gottman, a leading relationship expert, identified four key behaviors that predict divorce: contempt, criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling (aka shutting down emotionally). These might not seem explosive at first—but they’re silent killers of connection.

If one partner refuses to talk things through, brushes off concerns, or disappears during emotional moments, it creates a wall that becomes harder to break down with time. You can’t fix what isn’t faced.

He Doesn’t Like Your Friends? That Could Spell Trouble

Researchers followed 373 couples for 16 years. What they found? If the husband criticized his wife’s friends within the first year of marriage, there was a much higher chance they’d end up divorced.

Why? Women often rely on emotional support from friends, and if a partner disrupts that, it can isolate them emotionally. It may seem small, but disapproval of your social circle is often a symptom of deeper incompatibilities.

Too Much Passion Too Soon Can Burn Out Fast

It sounds strange, but couples who start off with over-the-top affection may be more likely to separate later. In a 13-year study, psychologist Ted Huston found that marriages filled with intense romantic displays early on had a higher breakup rate after 7 years.

The takeaway? Relationships built on slow, steady connection may have more staying power than whirlwind romances. It’s not about fireworks—it’s about staying lit through the storms.

Video:
How to Predict a Divorce with 91% Accuracy

Financial Stress Takes Its Toll

This one’s no surprise—money issues can ruin even the strongest emotional bonds. Struggling to pay bills, arguing over debt, or facing job loss puts massive pressure on a relationship. And for couples already on shaky ground, it can be the final straw.

Researchers confirm that poverty and unemployment correlate with much higher divorce rates. And when one partner carries the financial burden alone, resentment builds like rust on a chain—it doesn’t snap all at once, but it eventually does.

Your Bed Might Be Too Small for Your Marriage

Here’s something most people never consider: the width of your bed might be linked to your marital satisfaction. Sleep researchers found that couples who sleep better (even if that means in separate beds) tend to stay happier longer.

Poor sleep leads to irritability, emotional distance, and even health problems—all of which can trickle into how you relate to your partner. Around 30-40% of couples already sleep separately. So if you’re tossing and turning all night, it might not just be a mattress issue—it could be a marriage one too.

No single factor guarantees divorce, and spotting these signs doesn’t mean your relationship is doomed. But awareness is power. If any of these hit close to home, take it as a prompt—not a prediction.

Whether it’s how you communicate, how you argue, or how you sleep, small changes can have big impacts. The key? Don’t ignore the signals. Relationships take work, intention, and a willingness to grow—even when it’s uncomfortable.

Marriage isn’t about perfection. It’s about perseverance. So look for the signs, listen to your instincts, and most of all—fight for what matters.