In our previous post, we began looking at a recently released 2010 study of divorce rates among the states. That study was released by the National Vital Statistics Report and the U.S. Census Bureau.

As we have noted, the study found that economic factors play a large part in divorce rates. States with large working class populations and where the recession has been a rough ride tend to have higher divorce rates.

Picking up where we left off, West Virginia is number five on the list, with 5 divorces per 1,000 people. Although West Virginia actually saw economic growth between 2008 and 2009, the state still had a rather high divorce rate. West Virginia is a no-fault state, but also allows for fault-based divorce. If the latter route is chosen, the filing parting must show that the spouse caused them bodily harm or mental cruelty, was habitually drunk or addicted to drugs, or falsely accused them of adultery or homosexuality. Idaho ties with West Virginia.

At 5.2 divorces per 1,000 people, Wyoming comes next on the list. Wyoming is the least populated stated, and has the third highest divorce rate. Sources say that may be due to the fact that divorce is fairly easy to obtain in Wyoming. Couples need only reside in the state for sixty days to obtain a divorce, and sources say an uncontested divorce can be completed three weeks from filing. After Wyoming comes Arkansas, with 5.6 divorces per 1,000 people. Its high divorce rate is largely due to economic stress, financial stress, and low marriage ages. Statistics show that the younger marriage partners are at the time they tie the knot, the more likely is divorce.

At 6.6 divorces per 1,000 people, Nevada has the highest divorce rate in the nation. That shouldn't come as a surprise to those familiar with Las Vegas' reputation for quickie marriages and quickie divorces. The culture of Las Vegas also likely plays a part in the breakdown of marriages.

Although marital success is not intrinsically tied up to one's state of residence, it is interesting to see how economic and social trends produce patterns in divorce. Although the patterns may be viewed as a cause for despair, knowing what factors contribute to marriage breakdown can also help couples better prepare for a successful marriage.

Source: CNBC, "The 10 Most Divorced States," Jamie Grill, August 8, 2011.