Amidst the already challenging process of separation, some parents experience a more painful form of manipulation—parental alienation. This occurs when one parent consciously or unconsciously turns a child against the other parent, creating emotional distance and, in some cases, complete estrangement.
Suppose you suspect that your soon-to-be ex is alienating you from your kids. In that case, it’s essential to understand what parental alienation is, recognize the signs and take appropriate steps to protect your relationship with your children.
Negative change in your child’s attitude
One of the most obvious signs is a sudden shift in your child’s behavior toward you. You may notice that, sometimes, without a clear reason, your kids may become:
- Hostile
- Defiant
- Emotionally distant
If these attitudes seem to come out of nowhere, it could be a result of alienation.
Lack of communication
A soon-to-be ex who is alienating you from the kids might limit or control your access to the children by:
- Failing to inform you about important events
- Not answering when you call
- Denying scheduled parenting time
Children may also stop responding to your attempts to reach out, sometimes due to pressure or influence from the other parent.
Unfounded criticism
Your child may start to echo negative statements that your ex has made, often repeating phrases or complaints that seem out of character for them. This could be the result of repeated negative talk from your ex, distorting the child’s view of you.
Refusal to spend time together
Your child may refuse to spend time with you, avoid visits or make excuses for not wanting to be around you. This can happen when the alienating parent paints you as unsafe or untrustworthy.
Parental alienation is a deeply painful and damaging experience, but recognizing the signs early and seeking legal support can help you navigate through it. Remember, maintaining a loving, patient approach with your children is crucial while protecting your rights as a parent.