WHAT CHILDREN LEARN FROM PARENT CONFLICT RESOLUTION!

Written by Olivia Arrow

As parents, we often try to shield our children from conflict and disagreements within the household. We want to create a peaceful and harmonious environment for them to grow up in. However, arguments and disagreements are inevitable in any relationship, including the one between parents. While it may be uncomfortable and even distressing for children to witness their parents argue, it is also an opportunity for them to learn valuable life lessons.

Communication and Conflict Resolution Skills

One of the most significant things children learn from seeing their parents argue and make up is how to communicate and resolve conflicts. Children observe their parents’ communication styles, both during an argument and when making up. They learn how to express their feelings and opinions without resorting to shouting or violence. They also learn the importance of actively listening to the other person’s perspective and trying to understand their point of view.

When parents make up, children witness how conflicts can be resolved peacefully through compromise and forgiveness. They learn that disagreements are a natural part of any relationship and can be resolved without hurting each other. This experience can help children develop healthy communication and conflict resolution skills, which are crucial for their future relationships and interactions with others.

The Power of Apologising

Another important lesson children learn from their parents’ arguments is the power of apologising. Children observe how their parents take responsibility for their actions and apologise when they have done something wrong. This teaches them the value of owning up to their mistakes and apologising sincerely. When parents make up after an argument, children also witness the importance of forgiveness and letting go of grudges. They learn that it is okay to make mistakes, and what matters is how we handle them.

Emotional Regulation

Children are like sponges, and they absorb everything they see and hear. When parents argue, children witness a range of emotions, such as anger, frustration, and sadness. They also observe how their parents manage and express these emotions. If the argument escalates into a heated exchange, children may feel scared and overwhelmed. However, if the parents remain calm and communicate respectfully, children learn how to regulate their emotions and express them in a healthy manner.

When parents make up, children witness the power of forgiveness and the joy of reconciliation. This experience can help children understand that it is okay to feel angry or upset, but it is essential to express these emotions in a healthy way and let go of them eventually.

Resilience and Adaptability

Children also learn resilience and adaptability from seeing their parents argue and make up. When parents argue, the household dynamics may change, and there may be tension and discomfort. However, when the disagreement is resolved, the family returns to a state of normalcy. This experience teaches children that conflicts are temporary and can be overcome. It also helps them develop the ability to adapt to changes in their environment.

When parents make up after an argument, children also learn the importance of forgiveness and moving on from conflicts. This experience can help them develop resilience and the ability to bounce back from difficult situations.

Healthy Relationship Dynamics

Children learn a lot about relationships by observing their parents’ interactions. When parents argue and make up, children witness the ups and downs of a relationship. They learn that relationships require effort and compromise from both parties. They also learn that it is normal to have disagreements, but what matters is how we handle them.

If parents argue and make up respectfully, children learn the importance of mutual respect, trust, and support in a healthy relationship. They also learn that it is okay to express their feelings and opinions and that their voice matters in the family dynamic.

Empathy and Compassion

When parents argue, children may feel sad or upset to see their parents in conflict. However, when they witness their parents making up, they also experience the joy of reconciliation. This experience can help children develop empathy and compassion towards others. They learn that conflicts and disagreements can be resolved, and relationships can be mended if both parties are willing to communicate, listen, and forgive.

When children see their parents arguing, they may feel scared or worried about the outcome. This experience can help them understand that others may also experience similar emotions, and they should be mindful of how their actions and words may affect others.

While it may be uncomfortable for children to witness their parents argue, it can also be a valuable learning experience. From communication and conflict resolution skills to empathy and resilience, children learn a lot from seeing their parents argue and make up. As parents, we should strive to set a positive example for our children, even during disagreements, as it can shape their understanding of relationships and conflict resolution in the future.