Parenting Teens With an Angry or Critical Partner: How to Handle Conflict at Home

Ask Rachel anything “My husband is highly critical of the teenagers, gets angry over little things and yells, so I’m having to make up for his behavior, and I often avoid involving him in parenting decisions." This message came into my Substack. It was a plaintiff request for support and a plea to know how others deal with the problem. When I posted it (with her permission), a flood of parents said, “This is my life too.” If you're dealing with high conflict in your home, whether with your teens or your partner, then this is the episode for you. Conflict navigation specialist, mediator, and divorce coach Masha Rusanov helps us to unpack what really sits behind high‑conflict dynamics at home—especially when one parent is emotionally dysregulated, highly critical, or reactive. She says: 'We don’t choose our conflicts. We repeat them. Until we change the pattern." Link to my write-up on the topic In our conversation we explore: Why we repeat the same painful conflict patterns (and how to start changing them) Masha’s simple but powerful Exhale–Explore–Engage framework you can use in the heat of the moment Practical scripts and tools (EAR and BIFF) for navigating a high‑conflict partner How to protect your children emotionally, set boundaries, and avoid parentifying them Ways to talk to your kids honestly about what’s happening—without overburdening them If you’ve ever found yourself “making up” for a partner’s behaviour, or trying to keep things calm so your teens feel safe, this conversation is for you. Masha Rusanov Repatterned Book REMINDER: Please don't stay in a situation that is potentially dangerous. This is the national domestic abuse helpline for the UK, but you will likely have one in your country if you're listening somewhere else. Spotting the signs Is your partner jealous and possessive? Is he charming one minute and abusive the next? Does he tell you what to wear, where to go, who to see? Does he constantly put you down? Does he play mind games and make you doubt your judgment? Does he control your money, or make sure you are dependent on him for everyday things? Does he pressure you to have sex when you don’t want to? Are you starting to walk on eggshells to avoid making him angry? Does he control your access to medicine, devices or care that you need? Does he monitor or track your movements or messages? Does he use anger and intimidation to frighten and control you? Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episode on Substack: My email [email protected] My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook