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Study: Does a woman making more in a relationship cause problems?

More than 29 percent of women are the head breadwinners of the family - but that could be causing marriage strains.
Credit: POJCHEEWIN YAPRASERT PHOTOGRAPHY
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It's the age old stereotype that has been turned on its head - men were the sole breadwinners of the house and women tended to stay at home. Now, that tale has somewhat flipped. According to 2016 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 29 percent of women in heterosexual marriages make more than their spouse. Though that may not seem like much, this statistic is steadily on the rise, whereas in 1987, only 18 percent of wives claimed to be the breadwinner.

However, instead of celebration, according to several reports, many women fear that this could end their relationship. A study from the University of Chicago in 2015 found that a wife making even $5,000 a year more than her husband was associated with a greater risk of divorce. In an article from Refinery29, Ashley Ford describes this as an "almost unavoidable emotional and psychological consequence," women feel guilty for making more and men feel emasculated.

So how to solve this relationship complex? Chance Butler, the founder and CEO of Investing Under 35, says the biggest keys are communication and support. First, confront the money issues you have head on instead of letting them fester. Understand that there are more ways that a partner contributes than money - like cooking and picking up the kids. Secondly, enlist help if needed. Financial advisers can act as an objective third party and help couples work through disagreements surrounding money. Do you have financial strain in your marriage? Let us know your helpful tips and tricks on the Daily Blast Live Facebook page.

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