Recession hit couples 8 times likelier to break up

A new study has revealed that couples who suffered most during the economic downturn are eight times more likely to have broken up than those least affected.

The study from the relationship charity Relate found that only two per cent of couples whom the recession hardly impacted on broke up, eight times fewer than those most affected and those that have stayed together in the hardest hit group are also more likely to have found the quality of their relationship has deteriorated, the Independent reported.

The study examined data showing how 20,000 Britons were affected by the economic downturn from 2009 to 2012. After being grouped according to the severity of the recession's impact on their finances and employment, researchers analysed how their relationships fared and clearly showed those most disadvantaged economically during the recession were considerably more likely to have experienced deterioration in their relationship quality and stability.

Ruth Sutherland, Chief Executive of Relate, said that the report provides an important lens for policy makers; central to the debate around recovery must be the protective power of relationships in getting people through tough times, as well as the restorative power relationships hold. Relationships must be a central priority in public policy and a cross-cutting effort by politicians and policy makers is needed to invest in protecting relationships. A social recession has occurred. A social recovery is now needed.