Why do couples argue over money?
Psychologists have demonstrated through research that we inherit our attitudes toward money and our spending patterns from past experience, and often from our families of origin. Cultural differences, sub-cultural differences, and individual personality differences all contribute to why people often do not see eye-to-eye with their partner when it comes to money. When working with couples, I often find it helpful to have people examine how and why their partners’ approach to saving and/or spending money is different than their own tendencies. I have also developed a behavioural “system” that I have taught to many couples with success that helps couples to be accountable to each other with respect to their finances (so as to help meet long-term financial goals) but also allows each person to enjoy some financial freedom. This “system” can become a new language by which couples can communicate in order to reduce tension and resentment in the relationship. In some situations, people eithe
