Most people stay in an unhappy, unsatisfying relationship for this one reason: Study

Let’s admit it—not everyone is destined with a happy and satisfying relationship.

But despite the tear-jerking and emotionally-challenging moments, which are a constant in their relationship, people would not walk out of it.

This brings is the question that baffles many—why do people continue being in an unhappy and unsatisfying relationship?  A study has found the answer.

People stay in an unhappy relationship for their partner

According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, most people continue being in unhappy romantic relationships for the sake of their partner. They decide against a break-up because they believe that doing so would be bad for the other person.

When the other partner is more dependent on the relationship

When people consider ending a relationship, they are likely to decide against breaking-up if they believe that their partner wants and needs the relationship to continue. “The more dependent people believed their partner was on the relationship, the less likely they were to initiate a breakup,” said the lead author of the study Samantha Joel.

What experts believe

According to experts, taking the initiatives to break-up with a lover is not an easy task. In fact, if one partner is happy in a relationship whereas the other is not so, it becomes even more difficult to call it quits. “Also, the hope that the relationship would improve keeps couples motivated to continue being in a troubled relationship. If one partner is totally committed to making the relationship work, the other would definitely be uncomfortable to end it,” said Shweta Singh, Senior Consultant Psychologist.

Other studies

According to other studies, the amount of emotions and time invested in a relationship can be deciding factors to continue being in an unhappy relationship. Sometimes people also opt to remain in an unsatisfying relationship when they have no other alternatives or they fear being alone.

When to call it quits

Although it’s quite commendable to stay in an unsatisfying relationship for the sake of the partner but one should also take into account whether doing so would prove to be beneficial for both. Because no relationship can survive for long if both the partners are not on equal grounds. It’s best to consult an expert or a counsellor if adjusting to such a situation is proving detrimental for the health of the relationship and the people involved.