ANN ARBOR—Kids’ emotional security becomes threatened when their parents can’t resolve their differences peacefully, especially in low-income households dealing with stress and finances.

A new University of Michigan study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that when parents listen or use humor to resolve conflicts, their children report fewer emotional and behavior problems.

But, not surprisingly, if parents become verbally aggressive with blaming and putdowns of each other, children had more emotional and behavior problems as their confidence erodes in their parents’ ability to provide support and protection, said lead author Joyce Lee, U-M doctoral student in social work and psychology.

Families from all socioeconomic backgrounds are affected by parental conflict. The rates tend to be higher in low-income households that deal with poverty, stress and unemployment.

Read the full article at Michigan News.