Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes Divorce: Actor's Religious Beliefs Could Have Caused Rift, Says Expert
Celebuzz spoke to relationship expert and psychologist Rachel A. Sussman -- the author of The Breakup Bible -- and asked if there were clues that their marriage was on the rocks.
"If you notice a change in a couple's patterns, generally something is shifting," Sussman, who has appeared on the TODAY and ABC News.
"This will make one wonder if perhaps they are experiencing difficulties or going through a rough patch.
"If a couple who is generally seen together, and then you start to see them appearing separately -- that is often a telltale sign that something is wrong."
Celebrity watchers have noted that the couple, who married in November 2006, haven't been seen together in quite some time.
Holmes was noticeably absent from some of her hubby's recent events, including the Rock of Ages premiere and his Friar’s Club gala. The twosome’s last red carpet event was on February 26 when they attended the 2012 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in West Hollywood.
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Sussman also said she suspected his religious beliefs could have caused a rift between the couple.
"I don't think you can discuss his relationships without questioning whether his utter devotion to the Church of Scientology has an impact on his relationships," she said. "When someone is super religious, it could cause discord in a marriage if the person you are married to does not share the same religious or philosophical devotion."
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Moving forward, she said, "Tom should spend some considerable time trying to figure out what part he is playing in the breakup of his marriages. Are there any similarities? Patterns? He may need to address any mistakes he is making."
What does this mean for little Suri?
"Divorce is very hard on kids," Sussman added. "It turns their world upside down. That is why I am a big fan of couples with kids trying to work it out and going to couples counseling. Divorce causes kids to question everything in their life. Long term studies show that divorce is very hard on kids and will cause some emotional problems that can impact them through out their life."
He was also quoted as saying he doesn't want any more children -- while their daughter is practically attached to her mom. If she desires a little brother or sister for Suri, that statement could be a deal breaker.
What do you believe contributed to the breakup? Tell us in the comments section below.
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how wonderful and insightful of Katies parents to be a support for their daughter, to be able to pull Katie and Suri out of a religion that is more controlling than Catholic faith. For Katie to have the wisdom to pull out now prior to Suri getting controlled by Scientology seems to me to be a strong and healthy choice for her and Suri. Having supportive parents close who can advise their young daughter how to safely plan how to counter a controlling husband and controlling Scientology is a gift. I'm sorry for your experience Sue, however not all parents of faith are like your experience
This divorce seems to have been instigated by Katie Homes meddling and controlling Irish Catholic parents. I know for a fact how tight and enmeshed these families can be. I married into one, thank goodness I am out of it. I feel really bad for Tom.
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It is very sad. But living in Clearwater,Fl., I can understand how Scientology can interfere with a marriage.
Saddness over the break up of two beautiful people who were obviously very much in love - perhaps they will reconcile, life is too short
What a shock i never believe. Tom u re my best
Katie was just another beard in a typical Hollywood sham marriage. Next up, John Travolta, then Hugh Jackman.
Really sad news,but their lyf they know best