Whilst it is certainly hard to break this inter-generational cycle of violence, it is not impossible and nor does it absolve the individual of their own responsibility. Once again this report seeks to be the watershed moment for those who know they are doing wrong and do nothing and those who stand by and watch. There is no question of the devastating scale and impact of family violence in Samoa and now every person must accept how childhood and gender roles in particular create the foundation for family violence (and all violence), in order for it to be changed. The creation and maintenance of the patriarchal society underpinning the prevalence of family violence occurs due to many factors and these will continue to be explored throughout the following chapters. INQUIRY FINDING 15: Samoa is a patriarchal society where women are seen as subservient to men. This gender inequality is the primary cause of family violence in Samoa as violence is the key tool in maintaining male superiority INQUIRY FINDING 16: The patriarchal society is reinforced and maintained by:     The popular conception of Samoan masculinity; Sexual entitlement of men; Lack of communication within relationships; Victim blaming and widespread internalisation of justifications put forward for the use of family violence. the 7.3 Fa’asamoa and Societal Norms “My question is where in the culture of Fa’asamoa does it say that if a woman does not do what the man wants, he can beat her or verbally abuse her? Where in our culture does it say that?” Luagalau Foisagaasina Eteuati-Shon, Matai, Counsellor, Former CEO MWCSD, Inquiry public hearings For many people the question of whether violence is part of the Fa’asamoa was critical as to whether it can be effectively addressed. Some view violence as an inherent part of Samoan society, a characteristic that can never be eliminated, and which is condoned by the Fa’asamoa. This perspective is both wrong and helps to further the environment of impunity for perpetrators of violence as, like notions of masculinity, it absolves the wrong-doer of any responsibility. Furthermore, regardless of whether violence is part of the Fa’asamoa any culture can adapt and evolve to meet changing environments. Like Luagalau, the majority of Inquiry witnesses strongly rejected the claim that the Fa’asamoa condones any form of family violence. In theory this is absolutely correct – there is no part of the Fa’asamoa which specifies that violence should be used, either inside or outside the family unit. However, the Inquiry determined that the Fa’asamoa and other cultural norms are contributing to the persistence of family violence.