One thing that has complicated marriage is changing roles for both men and women. The man was the bread winner; whereas the woman was the baker. The men went out to work in the emerging towns while the women remained at home taking care of the children. It would appear that everyone knew what was expected of them. There were clearly defined tasks for men and those of women. Men were traditionally supposed to be strong, competent, unemotional, problem-solvers, good providers and protectors. Women were supposed to be good cooks, baby sitters, housekeepers, nurturing, social and religious. As long as each played their expected role, the marriage relationship was smooth.
With the technological advancement, women liberation movement, increased education among women; these roles have changed. Women are doing virtually everything the men have been doing. Since both sexes are equally able to perform nearly all of the tasks required in a marriage, neither has to depend on the other. The issue of having children is no longer necessary for marriage. Today women can choose to have children or not and can have children without husbands.