I have always been confrontation-avoidant, most likely for the same reason--parents who never argued in front of their children.

Arguing is an essential skill for all adults. Not only is it part of how conflicts get resolved, but it is a vital piece in the armor we all need for dealing with a world that will beat you down if you can't stand up for yourself.

When children are denied the experience of seeing parents disagreeing, they not only develop unrealistic expectations about what relationships should look like, but they miss the opportunity to learn how to fight fair.