A 32-year-old divorced woman says she is strict and wants a man who will be obedient to her, while also saying she wants marriage. The problem is that she continues becoming involved with men she describes as unserious.

This Mental Groove reaction explores relationship dynamics, control vs cooperation, marriage expectations, male and female standards, divorce, and the importance of choosing partners whose goals and relationship preferences actually match your own.

Wanting a specific relationship structure is a personal choice, but the other person gets a choice too. A man may or may not be comfortable with a highly structured relationship where the woman expects him to follow her lead. The important issue is mutual agreement rather than forcing one person into a role.