Communication patterns and egalitarian decision making in dual‐career couples

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Abstract
Decision‐making egalitarianism and marital satisfaction were examined in nine dual‐career couples. Conversational strategies and patterns were identified by the researcher and compared to participants' reports. All couples reported high marital satisfaction; four evidenced high egalitarian decision making; three had both shared and individually‐led decision making; and two were dominated by one spouse. The researcher found less equality than reported by five participants ‐ primarily women. A profile of highly egalitarian decision making is presented; results are compared to previous research on couples' communication; and male‐female decision‐making differences are discussed.