> The fathers often retain a traditional and idealistic “Leave It to Beaver” view of marriage. They dream of the perfect soul mate. They know this woman isn’t i

> The fathers often retain a traditional and idealistic “Leave It to Beaver” view of marriage. They dream of the perfect soul mate. They know this woman isn’t it, so they are still looking. > Buried in the rigors of motherhood, the women, meanwhile, take a very practical view of what they need in a man: Will this guy provide the financial stability I need, and if not, can I trade up to someone who will? > The father begins to perceive the mother as bossy, just another authority figure to be skirted. Run-ins with drugs, the law and other women begin to make him look even more disreputable in her eyes. This is an op ed, so I assume this is the opinion of the author. It sounds like a lot of generalizations, which are probably culture-based as well. The author makes few citations without being specific of what parts are cited and what is opinion. Overall, my experiences with my own father (who wasn't much in my life) and mother run completely counter to the narrative provided here. I guess everyone is entitled to their opinions.