I think it gets blown up into something too big

I think it gets blown up into something too big. But it has a huge impact on both the man and womans phycology from my experience.

The man feels emasculated if he is not bringing in at least 80% of the family budget and the woman feels that she might be better off without him.

Men who are VERY solid in other areas such as being physically capable, skilled at fixing/building things, well networked with other competent men, etc. can over come the negatives of earning less, but its a struggle for most men.

Most people, even religious people, see submission (I prefer cooperation) from a purely material standpoint.

They completely miss out on the spiritual, mental and emotional strength that men can bring to the family.