Originally Posted by
Helenlee 
One thing I have noticed from personal observation is that my kids tend to kick the parent they feel can take it most, rather than the parent who "deserves" it.
This is absolutely the truth, and I try to keep it in mind when my daughter is angry with me about my perceived maternal failings. The stable, safe parent is the one who gets the brunt of a child's negative emotions. They whale on the parent they trust.
I had a discussion this morning in which my daughter confessed that she feels sorry for her dad. We also talked about alateen and I was surprised at how vehemently she said yes, she would like to go.
Hugs-- this parent stuff is harder than it looks when you're childless, isn't it. :P