Articles from Michael Becker

Secret Spending in Marriages: More Common Than You’d Think

Money Magazine recently reported that almost 80% of married people hide some purchases from their spouses. And it’s the men who are more likely to do so!

Addictions and compulsions aside, secret spending is often done simply to avoid conflict or criticism. And while a little white lie here and there may keep the peace, over time, increasing secret spending can cause big problems in marriages, because it ruins the trust necessary for healthy unions.

So when is secret spending a problem? The author suggests asking ‘if my partner found out, would this damage the trust between us?’ Hiding bills or receipts, or telling the kids ‘don’t tell mom/dad about this purchase’ are other signals of problems.

Recent Articles

Celebrities Mediate, Too!

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s relationship, dating back to the early 2000’s has been one of the most public love stories in Hollywood. And when they recently got divorced, they chose a more private and pragmatic approach: mediation. No doubt, they could have afforded to hire armies of attorneys to fight it out for years…

The 5 Steps in a Troubled Marriage

In her upcoming book, I (Think) I Want Out, couples’ therapist Becky Whitestone lays out the five milestones in a failing marriage. She hopes couples who identify these stages early on can save their marriage before it’s too late.

Spending Limits Help Couples?

Couples that agree on spending limits have less conflict about money.

Legal Documents for College

Critical legal documents parents should have in place for college students.