Part 4/9:
There’s an unspoken expectation for men to deliver what many refer to as a "burden of performance." This means that they are expected to provide protection, provisioning, and parental investment, making financial success critical in romantic partnerships. The prevailing narrative suggests that if a man experiences financial setbacks, such as job loss, not only is it a personal failure, but it also puts strain on the relationship. Women, particularly those who see themselves as investing in their partner’s potential, may struggle with the implications of these situations.