The news that Jon and Kate are divorcing isn't surprising, especially considering new study results from researchers at Australian National University. They've identified the factors that make a couple's marriage work, or not. With their findings, you could have practically predicted the outcome of this reality TV couple. To begin with, Jon was younger than 25 when he got married, which makes him twice as likely to get divorced. And he's a smoker, while Kate is not, which increases the chance of a relationship ending. Their 8 young children, however, would not have contributed to their separated status, as the number and age of a couple's children do not affect separation risk significantly.

Other factors that may lead a couple down the road to splitsville:

• A husband is nine or more years older than his wife
• There are kids before marriage (from previous relationships or the same relationship)
• A woman wants kids much more than her partner
• The couple's parents are divorced or separated
• The couple is on their second or third marriage
• Their finances are unhealthy or the husband is unemployed

So what's the secret to a marriage that lasts? For starters, couples should think twice about moving in together before tying the knot. A study in the February issue of Journal of Family Psychology found that couples who moved in together before marriage reported lower quality marriages and their potential for breakup was greater than other couples. Communication is also key to avoiding the resentment and unresolved problems that can often derail relationships. Try new, exciting activities together; boredom is a known relationship killer. Working together to keep your marriage strong can keep you happy and healthy.

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