Final answer:
In Kathy Gerson's study, the majority of both men and women favored an egalitarian model for structuring their marital relationships, indicating a shift toward gender equality and partnership.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Kathy Gerson's study of 18-34-year-olds regarding how they wanted to structure their marriage relationships, the majority of men and women expressed a preference for an egalitarian model. This suggests that they desire a partnership where both spouses have equal say and participation in both the private and public aspects of life, which contrasts sharply with both patriarchal and matriarchal systems. The patriarchal model often positions men at the head of both family and societal structures, while matriarchal systems, though often discussed theoretically, are not prevalent in contemporary society. Instead, modern shifts toward dual-earner marriages and increased education for women suggest a societal trend towards more egalitarian relationships and families. Reflecting an increased awareness of gender equality, this preference also aligns with the changes in cultural norms and legal reforms that seek to rectify gender imbalances.