Couple Decision Making

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Abstract
This study addresses the question of potential differences in the processes and outcomes of joint decision making in terms of the particular issue being negotiated by spouses, and the partner's behavior or assessment being examined. The proposition is tested and verified that decision-making processes vary by both spouse and the issue being discussed. Husbands' and wives' assessments of the outcomes of decision making do not differ within couples, but their assessments do vary across issues. A further proposition-that the importance of getting one's own way regarding the particular issue influences decision dynamics and outcomes-receives much less support. Future research should take into account emerging contemporary issues and avoid treating couple decision-making processes and outcomes as unidimensional. Further work on the reasons for observed differences across issues in couple decision making is needed.