The anger and misery of parents at war can affect how children deal with their own emotions and how they relate to others.

Children who are witness to constant slanging matches and in severe cases, violence, will be damaged by the experience.

Each gender is affected differently, boys tend to be more aggressive while girls lose confidence.

I am not suggesting arguing should cease altogether, keeping angry feelings bottled up will only exacerbate difficult issues.

The negativity experienced by both partners can block out any positive comments.

Arguing usually follows a pattern. There is an art to listening, you may not agree with your partner but you may be able to understand their feelings.

You will not only be helping each other to a better future, your children will also reap the rewards.