Parental conflict
On this page
What is parental conflict?
All families argue. Some families can argue and sort issues out. Children learn from this, and it can help them in life.
But if you argue often and you criticise, are rude to each other, become defensive or you give each other the silent treatment this can cause problems, especially when nothing gets resolved. Professionals call this parental conflict.
The Parental conflict toolkit provides information on:
- communication
- the harm to children
- the routes to harm
- advice for new parents
- talking about conflict
How does parental conflict affect my children?
Parental conflict can put children at more risk of:
- having problems with school and learning
- problems making or keeping friends
- health problems
- bad behaviour at home
- they might stay out of the home and get involved with gangs and get in trouble with the police.
What is the difference between parental conflict and domestic abuse?
Parental conflict is where two people argue often, and nothing gets sorted.
Domestic abuse is when one person is abusive to another. They may have used or threatened physical or sexual violence to make you scared.
If you think your relationship is abusive you can get help by visiting our domestic abuse pages or by looking at the NHS guidance.
How to get support
You can contact Black Country Womens Aid, or contact us, or email the Walsall Family Information Service (FIS). You can also visit or contact the Walsall Family Hubs if you are in need of advice or help.
Resources that can help you
The following websites have resources that you might find helpful:
- See It Differently - information and videos about parental conflict
- Relate OnePlusOne - relationship advice
- Cafcass - grown-ups - support for parents or carers, as well as professionals
- Cafcass - resources for parents and carers
A collection of Parental Conflict stories can be found on our YouTube channel. A playlist with audio descriptions is also available.
