The way couples manage their finances can say a lot about their vision of love and their relationship. According to Sarah Benmoyal, a professor of management sciences, financial choices within a couple are often a reflection of deep-seated values. How do these values influence the management of money in the couple, and how does this translate into the relationship?
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The way couples choose to manage their finances is not trivial and can reveal a lot about the dynamics of their relationship. Sarah Benmoyal, University Professor of Management Sciences, thus notes that “The types of accounts we choose can reflect how we view romantic relationships.» According to a study carried out by the latter, the values underlying these financial choices are also structured around the well-known triptych: liberty, equality, fraternity. Those for whom liberty and autonomy are essential often opt for separate accounts, possibly supplemented by a joint account. This management method therefore promotes financial independence and can simplify things in the event of a separation. However, it can also make daily management more complex in terms of the distribution of expenses.
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For other couples, equality is the key word. “Those who believe equality is important will say that spending should be split 50/50.”the researcher emphasizes. In this approach, regardless of income differences, the idea is that everything should be shared equally. This moral vision of financial distribution can strengthen the feeling of fairness within the couple, but it can also be a source of tension if the income gaps are too great.
Finally, there are those for whom brotherhood, or solidarity, is essential. These couples often favor joint accounts, thus sharing all of their income and expenses. “Solidarity will be formalized here by an unequal distribution in terms of investment on expenditure”says Sarah Benmoyal. This means that if one partner earns more, they will contribute more, thus maintaining an equivalent standard of living for both. This approach strengthens unity and mutual support, but it requires a great deal of trust and a shared vision of finances.
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In short, the way couples manage their money is much more than a simple practical question; it reflects their conception of life together. As Sarah Benmoyal points out, these financial choices are closely linked to the values of liberty, equality and fraternity which, just like in love, guide the relationship. Understanding these dynamics can therefore help couples navigate financial matters more serenely, while strengthening the foundations of their relationship.
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