The information on this page was prepared by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, a non-profit association of lawyers who are experts in family law. The members of this association know that divorce isn't always the answer. If you are willing to devote some time and energy to identifying and correcting problems in your marriage, chances are that you can avoid the financially and emotionally draining process of divorce . One of the most common causes of marital problems is poor communication. So couples must share their thoughts and feelings or they risk losing touch with what is important in their marriages.
Direct communication is always best.
If you want or need something, tell your spouse. If your spouse is doing something that bothers you, tell him or her why it bothers you and what you would like your spouse to do about it. As with all communication, however, the secret is in the delivery. Never be accusatory or disrespectful. If your spouse reacts badly to something you've said, it's possible that he or she did not understand what you meant.