Decision-making - It is often assumed that pooling indicates more equality in decision making and control over resources, and it is more common among couples where both partners are in full-time work. However where the pooled income is controlled by the husband, this tends to give men more power in major financial decisions. Very important decisions, such as those involving finance, a change of job or moving house, where either taken by the husband alone or the husband have the final say. Important decisions, such as those about children, were usually taken jointly, and seldom by the wife alone. Less important decisions, such as the home décor, children's clothes, were usually made by the wife alone.
Culture versus material explanations - Gershuny and Laurie's findings provide support for the economic or material explanation of gender inequality.
The meaning of money -As pahl notes, just pooling money doesn't mean there is equality. we also need to know who controls the pooled money and whether each partner contributes equally. And if each partner keeps their money separately always means inequality.
A personal life perspective on money - The personal life perspective focusses on the meanings that couples give to who controls the money. the meanings that money may have in relationships cannot be taken for granted.