Are money problems causing relationship rifts?

Money really can be the route of all evil. If you have lots or even enough of it then it's fabulous, but when you are breaking open the piggy bank on a regular basis you're likely to start feeling a strain on your relationship.

A YouGov poll of 2,000 people in May this year has found that 22% said they have been arguing more regulary with their partners because of money concerns since the recession began.

A recent report from ICOR online (Information Centre on relationships) compiled research showing that arguments about money were especially damaging to couples and even more so to their children. Disputes were characterised by intense verbal aggression, tended to be repeated and not resolved, and made men, more than women, extremely angry.

Most couples assume that they know the ins and outs of each others finances, but in reality they don't. Among couples and friends, taking about personal finances seems to be as much of a taboo as death. However it is important that you are both aware of how much each of you are paying into joint accounts, using for bills, keeping for themselves etc.

Being honest about income and making budgets for household expenses may not seem romantic but it is completely essential and may just save your relationship.