WHEN PARENTS FIGHT?

Chances are you've had an argument or twenty with your parents recently — about clothes, homework, friends, curfew — pretty much anything. But what's going on when your parents fight with each other?


You may be a little relieved that, for once, you're not the one arguing with a parent. But most people worry when they hear their parents argue.


It's normal for parents to disagree and argue from time to time. They might disagree about important things like their careers, finances, or major family decisions. They might even disagree about little things that don't seem important at all — like what's for dinner or what time someone gets home.


Sometimes parents stay levelheaded when they disagree, and they allow each other a chance to listen and to talk. But many times when parents disagree, they argue.


What Does It Mean When Parents Fight?
When your parents are fighting, thoughts might start rushing around in your head: Why are they shouting at each other? Does this mean they don't love each other anymore? Are they going to get a divorce?


It can be easy to jump to conclusions when you hear parents argue. But most of the time, arguments are just a way to let off steam when parents have a bad day, don't feel well, or are under a lot of stress — kind of like when you argue with them.


Like you, when your parents get upset with each other they might yell, cry, or say things they don't really mean. Most people lose their cool now and then. So if your parents are fighting, don't always assume it means the worst.


It's OK for Parents to Argue Sometimes
It's natural for people to have different opinions, feelings, or approaches to things. Talking about these differences is a first step in working toward a mutually agreeable solution. It's important for people in a family to be able to tell each other how they feel and what they think, even when they disagree.




Sometimes parents can feel so strongly about their differences that it may lead to arguments. Most of the time, these arguments are over quickly, parents apologize and make up, and the family settles back into its usual routine.