Does Weight Loss or Gain Lead to More Divorces? with Jennifer Hargrave

by Jennifer Hargrave - Dallas Divorce Attorney | Feb 10, 2025

Does major weight loss OR gain actually lead to divorce?

Summary:

In this lively and thought-provoking interview with WBAP radio, family law attorney Jennifer Hargrave joins The James Show to explore a surprising factor that can impact marriages—dramatic weight changes. With the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, more couples may be facing shifts in their relationship dynamics due to one partner’s transformation.

James and Jennifer discuss how any major life change—whether weight loss, weight gain, a job promotion, or financial shifts—can shake the foundation of a marriage. While weight gain often carries a stigma in relationships, weight loss can introduce unexpected challenges, including shifts in confidence, attraction, and even a partner’s insecurities.

Jennifer offers practical advice for couples navigating these changes, emphasizing the importance of communication, mutual support, and therapy to maintain balance. She also sheds light on why appearance matters in relationships and debunks the old saying that “men marry women hoping they never change, while women marry men hoping they will.”

Transcript:

James: Do you think divorce happens more because one spouse gains a ton of weight or because they lose a ton of weight? I never thought of it that way, but I bet, with weight loss drugs like Ozempic, we’re seeing a lot more of the latter.

Jennifer Hargrave: I think anytime a spouse experiences a significant life change—whether it’s weight loss, weight gain, or even a major career shift—it can disrupt the balance in a marriage. And not always in a good way.

You’re right—people often expect that losing weight will improve a relationship, but sometimes, it does the opposite. We hear complaints about weight gain, so divorce after gaining weight isn’t as surprising. But when someone loses a lot of weight, it can shake up the dynamic, too.

James: How much of this comes down to human nature—people just being as loyal as their next best option?

Jennifer: That’s definitely a factor. When someone loses a lot of weight, their self-confidence might increase, they may start getting more attention, and suddenly, what they were willing to tolerate in their marriage shifts. They might realize they have other options.

James: So, the best solution is for couples to either gain or lose weight together?

Jennifer: Exactly! That helps mitigate the imbalance. But ultimately, it’s not about weight—it’s about change. If one spouse suddenly makes more money or starts hanging out with new people, that can also create tension. Therapy can be a great way to help couples navigate these shifts.

James: I don’t get that one. If my wife suddenly starts making three times as much as me, I’m holding on to her even tighter!

Jennifer: (Laughs) You say that, but it could bring up insecurities you didn’t even realize you had. It’s something couples need to be aware of.

James: If your spouse suddenly gains or loses a lot of weight, should you be worried?

Jennifer: It’s not about panic—it’s about awareness. Ask yourself, “Are there new dynamics at play? Are there things we need to discuss?” Ideally, spouses should support each other through changes. But weight loss, in particular, can trigger jealousy and insecurity. If one spouse is feeling threatened rather than supportive, that can fuel resentment—one of the biggest predictors of divorce.

James: This is going to sound a little mean, but I’ve always wondered: If physical attraction is so important, how do “ugly people” stay together?

Jennifer: (Laughs) Maybe they value other qualities in their partner beyond looks. There’s an old saying: Men marry women hoping they’ll never change, while women marry men hoping they will.

James: Wow. That one hit me right in the heart.

Jennifer: It’s something to think about!

James: Jennifer Hargrave, where can people find you outside of WBAP?

Jennifer: You can visit us at www.HargraveFamilyLaw.com.

James: Thanks so much, Jennifer!

Compassionate Dallas Divorce Attorney, Jennifer Hargrave

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Hargrave Family Law was founded by Dallas divorce lawyer Jennifer Hargrave with a strong mission in mind. Using non-adversarial techniques, our firm advocates for you during this challenging life transition in a way that helps you protect what matters most. Reach out to our team of compassionate Dallas divorce lawyers at Hargrave Family Law for the support you need to navigate divorce and other family law matters. We offer a complimentary case evaluation to start your journey with us. Together, we will work towards safeguarding the happiness and well-being of your family, allowing you to write your next chapter with hope.