The Kachin traditional marriage system in its original essence is very rigid and seemingly confusing. The objective is to minimize future break up of homes. And to make marriage a lasting happy union there are many measures to channel the youth towards this end. Such educative steps are enforced and inculcated by subtle and tacit methods in gradual stages and in a manner the young people can understand. For those of marriageable age the exhortation will be more precise and forceful.
Penalties are also harsh.
Boys and girls, once released from the apron strings of mothers are encouraged to associate and play among their own kind. In no time some kind of rivalry between the sex groups and mutual contempt against each unconsciously creeps in. The acerbity generated in the little gangs of agemates of the same gender is so marked that it stretches into the family circle and brother will not mix with his own sister even at meals. Boys are more antagonistic. The outside advice and promptings on the conditions of the marriage laws increase in purpose and frequency as a child advances in age and intelligence.