The Allocation of Household Labor by Partners in Gay and Lesbian Couples

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Abstract
This study examined how full-time employed partners from 43 gay and 36 lesbian couples allocated labor for six household tasks typically performed by women in heterosexual couples. Although the relative frequency of performing household labor within the couple did not differ between gay and lesbian partners, compared to gay partners, lesbian partners reported that more tasks were done equally often by both partners. The relative frequency of performing household labor was related to interest in household labor, even with controls for skill in performing household labor. Satisfaction with the division of household labor exerted its effect on both relationship satisfaction and relationship stability through perceived equality in the relationship.