Role Reversal - "The Rise of Wives"

I just finished reading an article from New York Times on women taking up jobs in the work place while more men are staying at home (to read the whole article click here: She Works. They're Happy.). 

The author, Tara Parker-Pope, interviews different couples, and includes recent research and statistics about this change. Parker-Pope explains the 15% increase in women making the majority of household income. Many couples never imagined this role reversal, but financial reasons put them there. With men handling more household responsibilities, divorce rates have decreased and there are more happy marriages. In the 1970s, according to to the article, divorces hit an all time high at 23 divorces per 1,000 couples. Today, there are less than 17 divorces per 1,000 couples. These statistics contradict the popular belief of female financial independence increasing chances of divorce. Also, women are choosing better relationships knowing they no longer have to marry for economic or educational reasons. The men they choose are supportive of their independence and equality. 

This sociological change has positive and negative impacts on couples. Men aren't used to women having an equal or greater income than them, and feel as if they aren't meeting social expectations. One sociologist also found some men have poorer health if their wives earn more money. At the same time, women are having a harder time letting go of their power and dominant roles at home. Women still do 2/3 of the housework, but men are taking up more household responsibility than ever before. Women are more able to work through problems when they're earning greater income. Equally important, when couples both work and participate in household chores, they are less likely to separate (versus when men are the breadwinners and women stay at home). 



Men are no longer the superior spouse, which allows for a balance of power between men and women. Along with that, women are in a better position being with someone who embraces social equality. Since women are less likely to be dependent on men, they are more prepared financially if something were to happen. Finally, stereotypical roles are no longer normal expectations which allows more social mobility and freedom. 


I think this article is extremely interesting, especially considering my interest in feminism. It is amazing that attitudes toward this social change are positive and supportive. Seeing women gain independence and strength is an incredible thing, but it's great to know their new roles benefit and have a great impact on their relationships. 

This role reversal is apparent throughout different generations in my family. My grandmother on my dad's side grew up taking care of her siblings after her mom passed away when she was thirteen. It was expected of her to stay at home and raiser her kids while my grandfather went to work. This could be one of the reasons why my uncle was raised and has more chauvinistic beliefs. However, after I was born, my mom chose to stay at home while my dad continued to work. She has and always had the choice to go back. Once my brother joined Cub Scouts many years ago, my family and I became close to one of the other Scout families. In their household, the father stays at home and raises his boys while his wife continues to work and travel. It is interesting to see the role reversal among people you know and how it has changed over generations.

As long at men don't get their children put on What Not To Wear for picking out their clothes in the morning, this is definitely a remarkable social change.