Female Supremacy Articles - Page 28

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This was reflected in interviews yesterday with men and women across the region, many of whom noted that family life brings together a combination of lead-taking, choice-making and responsibilities. With much to do and little time, some things are divvied up, and others are shared, they said.

The poll includes the answers of 1,260 people who were married or living together as a couple; it has a margin of error of 3 percent. Overall, the poll reports that in 43 percent of couples, women had the most to say in a combination of four categories: decision making in finances, weekend activities, television choices and big-ticket purchases. Decision making was divided equally for 31 percent of couples, and men took the lead in 26 percent of couples.

Matt McCoy, 55, a machinist and father of two from Derwood, noted that his wife of 32 years keeps track of the checkbook, pays the bills and "did pick out everything for her kitchen." Still, he said, "other things we have decided together."

When it comes to television, though, there are differences. He likes sporting events and old movies. She likes "American Idol" and "Dateline," he said. Often, he will offer to relocate to the bedroom television when his wife wants to watch a program in the family room.

"I think we solve that problem with two televisions," McCoy said.