I should add that when my son gets verbally abusive, one of the ways I try to protect myself is to lash out.
I've never been physically abusive, but it's hard for me to feel love when I myself feel so threatened. So I think this sweet new blanket o' mine may help ease the anger and resentment I often feel, so I won't say or do anything negative out of anger.
He's my kid, and I'm the parent. I am learning, day by day, how not to act like I, too, am 15 years old. Progress, not perfection. ;0