Allen and Kristen had discussed financial planning before they married. They wanted to avoid the financial struggles they had seen in their own families. Kristen’s mother seemed to be the controlling one – distributing the money and paying the bills. Allen’s father had dominated the handling of finances in his family. Allen believed his was a good arrangement. That was over five years ago.
The first serious quarrel occurred when Allen bought an expensive hunting jacket which Kristen didn’t think he needed. They both lost their tempers making comments about each other they regretted later. Now he has done it again, he purchased a 4-wheeler for his hunting hobby without consulting her. They had another quarrel.
Both apologized and agreed to figure out how they could reach a better understanding of financial concerns in marriage.
Complete this exercise:
Identify one of Kristen’s values. __________________________________________
Identify one of Allen’s values. ___________________________________________
What did they do right? _______________________________________________
What could have been done to avoid the conflict? ______________________________