“Sometimes, I chose to divorce...but our elderly relatives always helped with the intervention and encouraged us not to get divorced.”Focus groups also discussed the potential strain on Christian families due to cultural differences between common male bonding over alcohol and the Cambodian Christian churches' anti-drinking stance. Additionally, one peacebuilder reported a lack of resources available to rural people, including basic understandings of domestic violence.
“After being married, there were many criticisms from our neighborhood; they said we would not keep our marriage relationship for long and that we might get divorced someday because we were from a different family status.”
“... [My spouse] is always complaining and telling our neighbors about our problem. It doesn't help at all and sometimes it doubles our problem. I often argue with [my spouse] for this reason.”
The reported experiences and pressures could indicate a need to address how to find/foster supportive extra-familial relationships, as well as coping strategies for families to deal with extra-familial discouragement and criticism. One focus group discussion suggested having family mentors to help address these needs. Additionally, lessons specifically on interactions with mother-in-laws were suggested.
