Table 2 Interview guide

Open-ended questions about Stressful life Experiences among first married polygamous women

1. How do you feel about your marriage? Probe: Did he ask permission? /inform you when he took another wife?

2. How would you describe your relationship with your husband?

3. What does your relationship with other cowives look like?

4. Do you live in the same compound or household? If so, tell me about your daily interactions

5. Are you happy with the work load allocation between your co-wives?

6. How would you describe your relationship with your stepchildren?

7. How would you describe your interaction with society?

8. How do you see the treatment your husband gave you in terms of time allocation? Probe: What about attention and care?

9. Do you think you would be better or worse off if you were not in a polygamy marriage? Probe Why?

10. What issue normally leads you to be stressed?

11. What is the most stressful situation you have faced so far at home? Probe: How did you handle it?

12. Can you describe a time when your stress resulted in conflict at home?

13. Is there anything you would like to add?