There’s so much to say on this topic.  Many spouses feel like they need to stay in their dysfunctional relationship for the kids.  However, do you think the kids are happy?  I’m guessing that they don’t like seeing their parents fight so what part of happy is really happening?  Now you might say, you don’t want to take them away from their friends, but there are benefits.  They get to whittness their parent make a healthy decision towards a better life.  If kids learn by example, they will take a stand for themselves and not tolerate abuse.