8. Paul and Mary have been married for 20 years. They have started fighting a lot. Paul comes to you for help. He knows that all marriages experience conflict now and again. However, he is starting to wonder how his fighting with his wife is affecting his children. What would you tell him? How does chronic conflict affect children? What suggestions would you give Paul for helping his children handle conflict?

Chronic Conflict among couples can be an issue of concern for their children. They might feel unvalued among the chaos, too agitated, or too submissive, too negative about relationships in general.

However, parents (Paul & her wife here) can play a huge role in ensuring that their relationship dynamics don't negatively effect their children -

They should avoid quarelling in front of children, solve issues privately. They should not involve children in fights, not hope them to take either parent's side. They should make children understand that healthy debates & discussions are part & parcel of all relationships. They should ensure children that - irrespective of couple issues, they are always together with their children as a parent duo unified team.