If you cool off and act calm, they will too. If things are really heated, try and have the conversation an hour or so after the inciting incident--don't deal with it while the " wounds " are still fresh.
[header] How to deal with mean parents [title] Take a moment to calm down before talking to your parents. [step] You will not be able to get your full feelings out if you're yelling and screaming. Remember that people mirror behavior in a conversation--the louder and angrier you get, the meaner your parents will get in response.