[3] Watta satta is more than just an exchange of women from two families or clans; it establishes the shadow of mutual threat across the marriages.
[5][7] The rationale for watta satta custom has been theorized as an environment with generally low and uncertain incomes, weak or uncertain legal institutions of the state, watta satta may be the most effective means available to the poor to prevent marital discord, divorces and domestic abuse.
In practice, watta satta may either promote peace in the two families, or (as has also been observed) produce escalating, retaliatory episodes of domestic violence.
[8][9] Bride exchange between two families is also seen as an informal way to limit demands and consequences of dower (brideprice) and dowry disputes.
[10] In rural parts of northwest and west Pakistan, and its tribal regions, Watta Satta accounts for over 30% of all marriages.