I'm posting as i am concerned about someone but i can't decide if this is serious. Obviously i don't have all of the information as its not my personal situation so the following is only what ive been told by the person who is going through this....
Wife is SAHM and housewife since birth of second child, joint decision as they would have been 'no better off' each month after childcare expenses. Wife plans to go back to work when youngest is at school.
Husband is therefore the breadwinner and controls all of the money except child benefit and small amount of tax credits which go into wifes bank account. Husband makes lots of expensive purchases without discussion as he sees no reason why wife should have a say as its 'his money'. Wife is quite frugal and sensible with money, but spends what is necessary and always ensures kids have what they need.
Apparently husband threatens to not give wife any money to go out (i.e. Socialise) when they have arguments. Not as in a set amount per month but a few quid here and there if she needs it. Husband does as he pleases with no discussion about cost etc when he wants to go out or buy things.
Wife gets set amount of money each week for groceries from husband and even though its not enough she gets no more and is made to feel bad that its not enough and often secretly gets loans/handouts from family to get by.
Husband buys tablet computer for pre-school age child (he wants it really) but wife is shouted at for wasting money if she burns the dinner.
Apologies this is slightly rambled but as i say, i only have snippets of info to go on.