Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Getting the bugs out of your marriage: Budgetitis

An inability to accept your spouse's attitudes toward money.

SYMPTOMS:

- Finances are primary topic of arguments
- A feeling your spouse is spending you into financial ruin
- Tendency to "surprise spouse" with items such as a new car, boat, etc.

ADVANCED STAGES:

- Tendency to spend money to get back at your spouse
- One spouse has complete control of the budget, forcing the other spouse to account for all money spent.

TREATMENT:

- Plan and hold one or more yearly discussions on budget and financial priorities.
- Evenly apply compromise
- Exercise understanding and consideration of your spouse's values and background.

CAUTION: If irritation breaks out during discussion, discontinue treatment until tempers cool down. Then increase dosage of compromise and understanding.

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