Divorce and the Passive Aggressive Spouse 

In any divorce case, important matters pertaining to money, property, and children must be resolved before a final order can be issued. Unfortunately, disputes between the parties are common and can delay divorce proceedings. Passive-aggressive behavior on the part of a spouse is one of the most common issues. In addition to being a contributing factor in the break-up of your marriage, it can create problems during your divorce, as well.  

Warning Signs of a Passive-Aggressive Spouse

Passive-aggressive behavior involves being unwilling or unable to communicate feelings in a direct way. In a marriage, this can result in pent up anger, frustration, and resentment in both parties, increasing the likelihood of a divorce. According to Psychology Today, there are five common warning signs that you are dealing with a passive-aggressive spouse: 

• They frequently act sullen. Passive-aggressive people often use moping and sullen behavior to convey their displeasure.
• They often give you the ‘silent treatment.’ A passive-aggressive spouse is likely to give you the ‘silent treatment’ for long periods, using it both to express their anger and as a form of punishment.

• They frequently use insults to convey their feelings. When passive-aggressive people do communicate, it is often through cutting insults. Their constant scorn and negativity can chip away at your marriage and may jeopardize your own self-esteem.

• They act stubborn. Refusing to admit they are wrong or that there are better and easier ways of doing things is a common characteristic of passive-aggressive people.

• They procrastinate and fail to complete tasks. Procrastination is a maddening weapon in the hands of a passive-aggressive spouse. It can cause you to miss important deadlines, jeopardizing your home, finances, and career.

How Passive-Aggressive Behavior is Likely to Impact Your Divorce

It is not surprising when one spouse gets so fed up with the other’s passive-aggressive behavior that they eventually file for divorce. What can come as a shock is the way these personality traits can impact your divorce proceedings. Common problems you are likely to encounter include: 

• Refusal to respond to your divorce petition;
• Refusal to attend divorce-related hearings;
• Refusal to attend mediation or engage in other negotiations that are required under the Illinois Statutes;
• Refusal to comply with any final divorce orders issued in your case. 

The good news is that all of these behaviors reflect negatively on your spouse, rather than you. While they can delay divorce proceedings, there is a strong chance that any final orders will be in your favor. 

Get Our Chicago Divorce Attorneys on Your Side

At the Women’s Divorce and Family Law, we provide the trusted guidance and aggressive legal representation you need when dealing with a passive-aggressive spouse. Call or contact our Chicago divorce attorneys and request a consultation today.