Does crying / arguing in front of children have an long term impact on their well being? I remember my parents having screaming rows when i was younger and being unpstairs listening and being in a state of panic. This was 30-35 odd years ago and it still makes me upset when I remember.
Due to my childhood experience, I have tried my best not to be too emotional in front of my children.
However, my DW has no hesitation crying or arguing in front of the children.
This means we cannot have an adult conversation about any issues with our marriage because she will become very defensive & shouty.
It also means that when she criticises me in front of the children, and she does fairly often, I don't defend myself. I generally accept her criticism because I want descalate the situation. Unfortunately, the children have occasionally repeated DW's criticism.
I am abit lost as to what I should do next. I am deeply, deeply unhappy, but I am too scared to say anything for fear of upsetting DW.