Few households are capable of escaping squabbles fully, whether these arguments are between spouses, youngsters or other family members. Since disputes are inevitable in family life, some of you may think that they are innocuous. But when you learn about the latest Danish study about squabbling and early death, you may want to think twice.
About the study
In the study, the researchers examined nearly 10,000 men and women aged 36 to 52 and found that stressful squabbles were associated with overall risk of early death.
This finding suggests that stressful social relations can be more than just unpleasant — they can increase your overall risk of early death. And the finding really gives you a good reason to cease squabbling at home.
How to cease squabbling
Occasional arguments in the family are quite normal, while people should try to avoid unnecessary squabbles. Here are some useful steps that can help you calm down and cease squabbling:
1. Write out your point of view
Instead of screaming loudly to your partner or your child, you can write out your views on the issue and how you would like to see the issue resolved. In this way, you can express your views more clearly.
Besides, your family member should have the same opportunity to write out what he or she wants to say.
Then, you should take time to respectfully discuss the issue so as to reach a solution or a compromise.
2. Accept the outcome
In order to end squabbling, it's important for you to accept the outcome. You should not harbor any feelings of resentment, or you cannot move forward completely.
If conflicts over specific issues happen again and again, there must be an underlying cause. Find this cause and solve it for good.
3. Remember that occasional arguments are normal
Arguments within a family, especially between kids and parents, are normal. If a family never has arguments, it probably means that issues aren't being addressed, not that they don't exist.
Besides, during arguments, your kids can learn how to listen to different opinions and respect every voice, which can contribute to better interpersonal development in kids.
4. Pick your battles
Finally, remember that not every situation merits an escalation into an argument. Some issues probably don’t worth the battle. For example, if your child wants to wear an old pair of sneakers to school rather than the newer pair, you can just let your kid choose.
