Thank you, EJ. I try my best to understand what it is she's going through, but because I grew up with an emotionally stable family, it's nearly impossible for me to relate.

Meanwhile, I'm working my butt off to pull us out of our financial problems and I'm too exhausted to be a good partner most of the time. I used to cry with her, but I can't even do that anymore.

I love her very much and I've tried very hard to support and help her. But learning to love herself is something only she can do. That's the kicker. If her self-esteem wasn't so low (due primarily to her upbringing), she'd be a lot happier and it would be much easier for me to be a better partner.

I know it sounds like a lot of excuses, but I've been put through the wringer the last couple of years and I'm just beat.

The bottom line is--I can't make her love herself.

Mya is o.k. I do explain to her (after the fact) that Mommy doesn't like getting angry and she loves daddy very much. She's just having a very hard time.

Mya is pretty unaffected right now, but I'm starting to worry if this behavior continues.