It became clear from the pre-test interviews, and was confirmed by subsequent interviews, that the respondents' understanding of violence within the family differs from the international norm. It is an accepted norm is that family members are supposed to love and care for each other, and maintain family in peace and harmony. However, it is also an accepted norm that conflicts may occur, and that when they do, violence may sometimes result in many families. It appears that if violence does not occur on a regular basis, women tend to forgive the husband. In such cases, the relationship is not seen as a violent one.
Many respondents view domestic violence as an ongoing process rather than an isolated event.
Occasionally violent actions, including slapping, are seen as undesirable but are not necessarily deemed serious or abusive. On the other hand, occasional actions which do cause serious health or psychological damage are considered abusive. For example, extra-marital sex or a severe beating may be considered abusive even if they happen only once. Only in cases when the wife gets injured because of a beating or when she is beaten repeatedly do people ask the local authorities to help. If they are only shouting and yelling they do not need help.