Recent research suggests that if an argument gets resolved, the emotional response tied to it is significantly reduced or almost completely erased. Thus, it may be worth bringing up issues with your friends, family members, or classmates rather than holding them back.

There is a difference between arguing and fighting. Arguing is that you and your opponent present your concerns and discuss the feelings and issues related to those concerns. You can engage in an argument respectfully without stirring up (激起) anger. Fighting, however, usually involves personal attacks, raising of voices, and storming out. Discussing your issues and resolving them instead of stuffing them down can improve your emotional health.

In a study, 2,000 people were asked to record their feelings and experiences for eight days in a row. When people had an argument that they considered resolved, they had half the reactivity of those who avoided an argument. Reactivity is an increase in negative emotions or a decrease in positive emotions. In other words, resolving an argument cuts your negative feelings by half. One day later, people who had a resolved argument reported no increase of negative emotions compared with those who avoided an argument. This means that resolving an argument can feel like you have reached a state of resolution — and you are less likely to be annoyed.

Moreover, the older you are, the more likely you will come to a resolution after an argument. This may be because more life experience usually leads to more defined priorities. You are more likely to distinguish between what matters and what does not.

It is easier to avoid a discussion, but risking talking about it may eventually lead to a better outcome.

How to talk to your child about current events

Nowadays, exposure to worldwide events is easily accessible. 【小题1】. Providing a safe, calming space to open a conversation with your child can help ensure that they are getting accurate information, and allows them to talk about the many fearful and upsetting emotions they may be feeling. The following tips may help you when discussing current events with your child.

Educate yourself before speaking to your child

【小题2】 By understanding what is happening, you will be able to offer simple, clear, and appropriate knowledge to your child in a way that also addresses any misconceptions they may have.

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Give your child a chance to voice what they believe has happened and why. This will allow you to listen for any misinformation, address areas needing clarification, and hear what concerns or fears your child is currently processing.

Ask questions, and encourage your child to ask too

It’s important that you allow your child to absorb the information you’re giving them and give them time to respond. Asking your child questions about how the event made them feel can give your child the opportunity to talk about their emotions without your influence. 【小题4】.This will encourage them to speak freely about their concerns without judgement, while establishing trust for future conversations.

Share your feelings and experiences

It is often helpful to share your own feelings and responses surrounding the events. If you have experienced discrimination, discuss that experience, how it made you feel, and what you did to overcome it. 【小题5】.