Discovery Girls

Ali offers her advice on how to cope with parents who don't always get along.

Dear Ali,

My parents yell a lot, and sometimes it gets really scary. Mostly I'm afraid they'll get divorced because they don't get along so well. What should I do?
—Really Scared

That is a scary thing—worrying that your parents might divorce. First, try talking to your parents about the situation. Talk to them together if you feel comfortable with that, or to just your mom or dad alone if that's easier. Tell them that all the yelling you hear scares you. They are the only ones who can fill you in on what's really happening between them. Next, remember that nothing that happens between your mom and dad is your fault. They are both responsible adults dealing with life the best they can. You are a terrific girl and no matter how it might feel, you can't cause them to split up—or keep them together. Your job is to be you, to talk with them, and to share your feelings. Hang in there!