Personality conflicts cited as key factor to breakups

Marcus Lum

A survey indicated that nine out of 10 adults in Hong Kong have experienced a breakup or divorce.

Nearly half of those surveyed identified personality and value differences as key factors that led to their separation, citing these issues as difficult to reconcile.

Conducted by HK Romance Dating, the survey involved 161 participants - 80 men and 81 women - who were questioned from June 1 to July 17 about their perspectives on emotional breakups and coping strategies.

About 80 percent of respondents reported having attempted reconciliation through various means, such as compromising and altering their behaviors and attitudes.

However, only 15 percent found these efforts to be effective.

The survey further revealed that 70 percent of respondents had never sought professional help, primarily due to the high costs and a lack of trust in the effectiveness of such services.

Anita Cheung Wai-ping, founder of HK Romance Dating, said that hourly fees for psychological counseling in Hong Kong range from HK$650 to HK$2,500, with many clients expected to attend six sessions - costs that many consider prohibitive.

Cheung added many couples are skeptical about the effectiveness of marriage counseling.

To address these issues, Cheung advocated for greater collaboration between the government and non-governmental counseling organizations to expand access to various counseling services, including online options.

marcus.lum@singtaonewscorp.com