What is an empty shell marriage?

An empty shell marriage is a term used to describe a marriage in which the couple remains married and often continue to live together, but the relationship has lost its passion, emotional connection, and intimacy.

Couples in an empty shell marriage often share a home and daily routines, but they function as separate individuals, and cohabit more like roommates rather than a married couple.

An empty shell marriage exists in name alone, often maintained for external reasons such as children, financial concerns, religious or cultural reasons or social expectations.