Long-term marriages often appear unshakable from the outside, yet many eventually come to an unexpected end. While every relationship has its own story, relationship experts say the same patterns frequently emerge when couples drift apart over time. Research from psychologist Dr. John Gottman and other marriage specialists has shown that divorce is rarely caused by a single event but rather by years of unresolved issues and emotional distance. Understanding these warning signs may help couples strengthen their relationship before problems become permanent.