The average couple bickers 2,455 times a year, a survey revealed yesterday – equal to almost seven times a day. The biggest single reason for a tiff is not listening to what the other is saying, which is responsible for around 112 cross exchanges a year. Annoyance about over-spending, especially on impulsive or unnecessary purchases, leads to 109 disputes – with money in general being the cause of a further 108.
Laziness caused 105 outbursts while snoring provoked 102. What to eat for dinner leads to 92 barneys a year – and 80 tiffs are about a partner walking mud into the house. Driving too fast, walking past items that need taking upstairs and what to watch on television are the cause of conflict more than once a week. Sex – particularly a lack of it or the timing – also causes 88 bust-ups a year.
The survey also showed the average couple will argue about disciplining the children 88 times, and have a further 79 disputes about spoiling them. And there are even 69 clashes because one person has failed to say “I love you” enough. The figures were revealed in a study of 3,000 people, either married or in relationships, by ensure home insurance.
Very interesting research.