Solomon (2024) in the Psychotherapy Networker made a good case for the large contribution of conflicts about jobs to marital disputes. Conflicts can include such issues as too much time spent on work, disrespect for the other's job, competition for job status, and unfairness about division of household responsibilities between the working partners. Differences in work-oriented perspectives can cause trouble in couple relationships. A 2023 Forbes survey found that that 46% of respondents endorsed their most common conflict as work-related.
In the article (Solomon, 2024), three work-oriented differences between couples were proposed. They were:
1) Slasher/Traditionalist - The slasher wants variety and tries out short-term jobs that are uneven in salaries and benefits. The traditionalist pursues socially-approved and reliable work that offers long-term employment and security. The slasher wants a job; the traditionalist, a vocation.
2) Coaster/Climber - The coaster wants to rely on the status quo, while the climber wants the stimulation of change and promotion. The coaster seeks stability; the climber chases ambitions.
3) Meaning-maker/Moneymaker - The meaning-maker wants to do work that is seen as vitally important to self and others. The moneymaker wants wealth. The meaning-maker pursues a calling; the moneymaker wants a job that provides a preferred lifestyle.
A given couple can represent more than one type. The differences between them are best explicitly recognized and dealt with directly. It is important that each work-orientation be seen as a valid perspective and that the couple can negotiate between themselves to arrive at a comfortable blend.
Reference:
Solomon, A. (2024). Work issues at the heart of couples' conflicts. Psychotherapy Networker, 48(1), 40-43.