Summary 

The presented work discusses how power and influence are distributed among family members in modern life. The latter shapes decision-making and relationships in the family. Modern power dynamics differ significantly from traditional, patriarchal structures, where power is concentrated in one individual. Today, families are oriented towards the arrangement of joint power between spouses. As sociological studies confirm, in most families, power is equal between spouses (77.5%). The economic factor has a significant impact on the distribution of power. Sociological studies conducted at different times have shown that in a certain part of families, the decisive role in the issue of power is assigned to the person who mainly provides for the family's economic security. Today, more than ever, many women provide for the family's economic security. In most cases, this happens together with their spouses. Therefore, in such families, income is distributed by joint agreement of spouses (68.7%). In a certain part of families, the principle of equal distribution of labor is violated. Despite the fact that men are also involved in family work to some extent, women still have more obligations, which often becomes a cause of dissatisfaction. Studies confirm that in most divorces, the wife is the initiator. The main reason for this is the unequal distribution of obligations and labor between spouses. The study of family power dynamics has shown us that there is a sharp increase in the trend towards symmetrical power dynamics, however, cultural norms, individual personalities and specific family circumstances play a certain role in the process of forming power dynamics in the family.

Keywords: Power, Exchange theory, Obligation, Equal distribution of labor