We are good friends with a couple who have been together for around 15 years. When they go out, she always drives so he can have a drink. They always go to the same place for holidays, because he wants to. He tells her what to wear, and will not let her wear makeup. Their three children act like shop dummies when out with their dad, or we visit. She has an allowance, and from what my wife has been told, the poor woman has to account for all expenditure. She always seems happy, and is very chatty and articulate so I dont think she is being mis-treated, but is totally accepting of her lot. I cant imagine a relationship like that, but I wonder how common it is.