I guess that somewhat depends on your wife? Is she willing/wanting to spend regular time at the range to be proficient with the gun?
Is she recoil shy?
Mechanically inclined?
Will she carry in a holster or purse?

All that said, I'd offer:

-Most small 380's produce a considerable amount of recoil and muzzle flash. Enough where it can be uncomfortable /intimidating for the new/occasional shooter. ( Also noted in the American Riflemen Article BTW)

-Small Semi's can be ammo sensitive/ jam-o-matics under varying conditions. Especially if a shooter "limp wrists" the gun.
-Semi's generally have a squarish one size fits all grip that usually doesn't

I'd vote that a J frame is still the best personal protection piece for most people. Doesn't have a long learning curve, doesn't jam, is reasonably recoil friendly (especially if you get her good fitting grips!).
It will also allow you to train her with lighter ammo and work up into +P.
Point it, pull the trigger and it goes "Bang" . Every time.

A J frame may not be sexy but it's likely the best tool in the box for most non LEO in most situations.

__________________
Dave