Criticism from family, neighbours and society can lead husbands in Jordan to prohibit their wives from working outside the home. In the lower strata of society, though, a w'oman who works before marriage may reduce her chances of finding a husband, as it is considered a sign of poverty and her need for financial resources. Women from the lowest social classes often work to buy their trousseau and then withdraw from the labour market after marriage (El-Kholy, 2002). Several countries have revoked the principle of women’s obedience, while others maintain it.