"If there is any realistic deterrent to marriage, it's the fact that you can't afford divorce." - Jack Nicholson

Economic instability is often seen as one key factor influencing the success of marriages across the globe. The challenges of maintaining a stable financial foundation and financial planning for the future of the family greatly affect the well-being of marriages, sometimes leading to one of the most difficult decisions for the family – divorce. An insightful quote by the legendary actor, Jack Nicholson, "If there is any realistic deterrent to marriage, it's the fact that you can't afford divorce," highlights the very real economic cost of ending a marriage and its serious implications on one's financial stability.

According to recent studies, the average cost of a divorce in the United States is about $15,000. This sum includes everything from legal fees, court fees, and the cost of maintaining separate living arrangements for the couple while the divorce proceedings are ongoing. Such a lump sum can be incredibly challenging, especially for middle-class families with limited financial resources.

In fact, separating through a legal process can be a drawn-out ordeal. In some cases, court proceedings can continue for several months, or even years. The strain on finances often leads to a points of contention, further exacerbating conflicts between the individuals involved. Hence, some people believe that it is financially wiser to stay in an unhappy marriage than to end it, even if it means remaining unsatisfied.

Divorce is also surprisingly high in other developed countries. For instance, Sweden, probably known for having a much more liberal attitude toward divorce, has one of the highest divorce rates in the world. The United States ranks high too, with around 40% of marriages ending in divorce. In Asia, the situation is slightly different, but the economic deterrent is also prominent, leading people to stay in unhappy marriages for reasons beyond just emotional attachment.

Politicians and policymakers have also taken notice of the financial strain of divorce, leading to much-needed reforms in certain countries. For example, Germany has seen the introduction of new legal research measures in divorce proceedings, with a focus on reducing costs, especially for those with less disposable income.

Finally, as divorces become increasingly prominent in society, more and more people are looking for alternative ways to transition out of a marriage – mediation, counselling, major financial planning and so on – to save costs and work towards a more amicable separation.

Of course, while financial considerations should not be the sole basis for staying in an unhappy marriage, it is an important factor. Perhaps as society progresses and these costs become more affordable, more couples will feel empowered to make decisions based on emotional and personal desires rather than economic concerns. The primary goal remains finding a way for divorcing couples to minimize the financial impact on themselves and their children's future well-being.