What does “equal” mean when it comes to the decision-making process? That’s a tough one because some issues require an “either THIS or THAT” decision. So…if husband’s decision is the one being executed in an issue…does that mean the whole process wasn’t equal?
I guess the word would be “fair.” A marriage involves two people right? If one partner makes a decision…it would obviously effect the other partner as well wouldn’t it? In a marriage, your decisions are not just “your decisions.” They will impact everyone else too. So, it’s only “fair” that both parties talk about their views and try to reach a compromise. You lose some you gain some…you bargain some.
Also depends upon individual personality. Some people are more passive and prefer to take a back seat and let others lead. The husband is the head of the household. Okay fine. But even the leader of any group…has to interact in a positive way with other group members to get anything accomplished. Imposing things on the other members has the potential to lead to chaos and ultimate breakdown of the group.
And what about those situations where the husband or “head of the family” has no sense of responsibility and maturity??? I’ve seen situations (yes, desi families) where the husband can’t get his act together…won’t get a job…spends most of his time doing drugs…and the WIFE is the one who finds herself in a leadership role and is the one who is supporting her family. In such a situation…should the husband be the “dominant” one simply because he’s a male?
“Dominant” could mean the individual is either dominant in a positive way or negative way. Does the husband have “leadership qualities”? And among these qualities is the ability to listen patiently and compromise with others.