I have seen disrespect go both ways in marriage. People with low self esteem will put up with a lot of things. It is sad when any relationship turns into a power struggle.

I have to disagree with the comment that the divorce laws favor women. The laws favor the lower/non-earning spouse. I know more than one woman who has to pay alimony to her ex-husband.

In my household, I am the breadwinner. I also manage the finances. The idea that I would give my husband an allowance is a joke. How incredibly condescending would that be? I am his wife, not his mother. Any person, man or woman, who allows themselves to be financially controlled by their partner is being treated like a child.