The Pwo Karen are a people who value harmony above all else and strive to maintain peace amongst themselves and minimize conflict with their surroundings. This is reflected in their tightly knit family units and interaction within and without their villages.
Pwo society is matrilineal, a system which ensures that most women, their daughters and grand-daughters live together in the same village. Also important is the matrilineal ancestor guardian spirit. Elderly men and women are much respected in Pwo society, both for their wisdom and their roles as parents and grandparents. During times of decision making, it is the elders who are turned to for advice.