Interview Questions

Affectee (woman)

What was the reason behind the second marriage of your husband?

My husband married a second women because she was the daughter of his business partner, so to
maintain a long lasting beneficial relationship with the company, he married the CEOs daughter to
extend relationships.

What challenges you face in society regarding polygamy?

Sometimes, my friends ask me how I can tolerate a second wife, and why have I not fought with my
husband about it. Other people also assume that I am flawed in some way and that’s the reason my
husband married a second time.

What positive things have you noticed due to polygamy from your husband?

A positive thing I have noticed is, my husband tries his best to maintain balance between both of us. He
has also become more hardworking and puts more efforts in his business, as now he knows he has two
families to support rather than one.

What benefits have you noticed related to household duties due your husband’s second marriage?

The biggest relief is the share of housework. Sometimes I don’t feel like doing any chores, so my co wife
steps in and we help each other in the upbringing of children as well. She also helps in making important
household decisions which I find tough to make by myself.

What psychological issues do you face being part of a polygamous marriage?

Some psychological issues I faced initially were anxiety and the feeling that my husband did not love me
anymore and was replacing me with some other woman. I also faced depression and a constant feeling
of insecurity and that I was not good enough.

Can you tell me some important measures you have taken to resolve your psychological issues?

I resorted to visiting a psychologist, who helped talk about my feelings and took my out of my circle of
insecurities, and helped me understand that I was capable. And that the second marriage of my husband
had nothing to do with me.
Can you tell us briefly how your mental issues affected the upbringing of your child?

Sometimes when I was depressed, I took it out on my child and screamed at him for no reason at all.
Also seeing me upset for no reason, upset him as well. Seeing me quarrel with my husband over trivial
things also made my child stressed and worried.

Does society support your husband’s decision?

Sometimes, society is very biased and usually judges me, the women for being incapable of fulfilling the
husband’s needs. But our families understand my husband’s decision and the reason behind it, so are
overall supportive.