There are two interconnected structures of leadership and authority within the Senufo village: one is based on the matrilineal kinship organization called nerege, and the other on the age-grade Poro society. Poro society membership cuts across kinship lines and household ties, and forms the stabilizing and unifying force within the community. The society functions as a religious and educational institution, which disciplines, guides and protects initiates of both sexes. The teachings and ceremonies of the Poro are meant to create respect for ancestral and cultural heritage, the authority of the elders, the value of cooperative group efforts, and obedience to the ancestors, and worldly and spiritual forces which control the lives of the people.