Going through a custody case is a major change in the child’s life. They need to be able to count on both parents to provide a stable environment for them. This is more likely if their parents can work as a team; however, that’s not always possible.
If you’re dealing with an ex who’s trying to alienate you, the situation can become dire. This can rip you and your children apart, and it’s something that shouldn’t ever happen.
Manipulation is at the heart of alienation
One of the hallmarks of parental alienation is that one parent uses manipulation in various forms to make the child think the other parent isn’t a good parent. This can include claims of abuse or neglect. In some cases, the parent makes claims that the other parent isn’t trying to spend time with the children, but the truth is that the alienating parent is doing things to keep the alienated parent from the children.
Children suffer immense harm
Children who are in the middle of a situation involving one parent alienating the other may not realize what’s going on. They may push the alienated parent away, which can result in a broken relationship. Once the child realizes what’s going on, it may take considerable work to repair their relationship with the other parent.
Any parent who believes they’re being subjected to alienation by the other parent should ensure they understand their options for handling the situation. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial, especially since these cases can be quite complex.