Disillusionment

An emotion often experienced in marriage when one (or both) parties asks themselves "Is this all there is?".

Disillusionment in marriage is normal, and is simply part of the cycle of romance, disillusionment and happiness that married couples experience. When one half of the couple is in disillusionment, they may find themselves easily irritated by their spouse's opinions and behaviours and more critical of their spouse. Romance and spontaneity generally decline during disillusionment.

In order to work through disillusionment, the couple must have a willingness to talk about their issues and problems with one another, a sense of commitment to one another, and an ability to make a decision to love.