Matrilocality. Residency patterns were often determined by rules of descent. In a matrilocal setting, usually in matrilineal society, the newly married couple set up residency in the bride's mother's compound. A girl born in a matrilocal setting took the name of the living matriarch or a maternal aunt. A boy would normally take the name of the matriarch's uncle or living brother.

Patrilocality. In most patrilineal groups, once a woman was married, she was obligated to move to her husband's father's compound, where the couple resided until they were able, or willing, to set up their own home. Usually, the young wife lived among the other women, and the oldest female in the compound exercised marital authority. Younger wives were placed under the control of this matriarch, or several senior wives, who established sleeping arrangements and assigned...