Marital conflicts are inevitable in family life. According to experts, the important thing is not to avoid any disagreements but how parents resolve them. Constructive conflicts can help children learn positive behaviors, while stressful, prolonged arguments risk affecting children's psychology and development.
According to psychologist John Gottman (USA), arguing is not something that breaks up a marriage. The important thing is that after each disagreement, couples still know how to listen, respect and show concern for each other. This is a factor that helps maintain a long-lasting and sustainable relationship.
Disagreements in married life are inevitable and not always negative. When resolved calmly and respectfully, conflict can help couples understand each other better and jointly resolve existing problems. However, arguments will become harmful when accompanied by actions such as insulting, mocking, belittling or attacking the other person.
Fierce arguments between parents can affect children's sense of security. When they frequently witness conflicts in the family, children are prone to anxiety, stress or insecurity. In the long run, the heavy atmosphere in the family can affect the relationship between parents and children, reducing emotional cohesion.
Prolonged stress can also affect children's physical and mental health. Some children have symptoms of insomnia, headache, abdominal pain, reduced concentration or behavioral changes. These effects can hinder learning and daily activities.
Not only stopping at immediate impacts, the consequences of family conflict can also last for many years. A study published in the Journal of Child Development shows that children who regularly witness their parents arguing are at risk of having difficulty controlling emotions and developing problem-solving skills. Studies also record higher risks of behavioral, academic and social relationships as children grow up.
However, not all arguments have a negative impact on children. According to Mr. E. Mark Cummings - a psychologist at Notre Dame University (USA) - believes that children can still learn positive lessons when witnessing parents resolve disagreements calmly and respectfully with each other. Exchanges with listening and compromise help children understand that conflict is normal in life and can be resolved in a positive direction.
Especially, when children see their parents reconcile after conflicts, they often feel more secure about the stability of the family. Therefore, experts recommend that parents resolve disagreements with empathy, avoid blaming and work together to find solutions. This is not only a way to protect family happiness but also contributes to creating a healthy environment for children's development.
