Parental alienation is an incredibly harmful, destructive practice that affects millions of children around the world. It can severely damage the quality of a child's relationship with their parent, and it has been linked to numerous short-term and long-term behaviors. Children in this scenario can experience symptoms from depression and self-isolation to emotional detachment and substance abuse.
Despite its prevalence, many people are still unfamiliar with parental alienation, or they have false ideas about it.
What Is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation is a situation where one parent turns the child against the other parent. Doing so often results in feelings of resentment, and it can lead to parents and children losing all contact with one another.
Factors that contribute to parent alienation include:
- Ugly child custody battles
- One parent's need for control or revenge
- Leftover resentments from a divorce or separation
If you see this behavior brewing in your life, and your children are turning against you, address the issue as early as possible. Doing so can lead to healthier and happier outcomes for the whole family.
The Impact of Parental Alienation on Children
An angry parent may try to convince their child that the other parent is unworthy of the child’s love and affection. This harmful act can leave a child feeling confused, anxious, and worthless. After all, there is a part of them inside that still loves the other parent, and they know that the other parent has treated them lovingly.
These negative feelings can have long-lasting effects on a child’s development, self-concept, and relationships with other family members. Children who are alienated from one parent are more likely to struggle with emotional regulation, social skills, and academic success. They may also struggle to form healthy relationships with others, including family members. This difficulty stems from the fact that they have learned to distrust people close to them, and they push these people away.
In short, the impact of parental alienation on children can be devastating and long-lasting.
The Impact of Parental Alienation on Parents
For the rejected parent, the emotional toll can be overwhelming. They may feel rejected, helpless, and powerless. Over time, these feelings can lead to long-term depression, anxiety, and a host of other mental health problems.
Recognizing Warning Signs of Parental Alienation
Parental alienation does not always happen in large, explosive bursts. It can start slowly and subtly, making it challenging for parents to recognize the warning signs.
Some early indicators of parental alienation may include:
- A sudden change in a child’s feelings toward one parent
- A child’s general lack of interest in spending time with one parent
- A child's sudden refusal to spend time with or communicate with one parent
- Evidence that the other parent is making negative or false allegations against you
These signs can be subtle or overt, but you should never ignore them. Staying aware of these warning signs, parents can take the necessary steps to address the issue.
Strategies for Addressing & Preventing Parental Alienation
- Maintain open communication with the child and the other parent.
- Emphasize the importance of the child’s relationship with each parent.
- Seeking help from a professional, such as a therapist or mediator. Doing so can help facilitate healthy communication and resolve underlying conflict.
Legal Steps You Can Take to Fight Parental Alienation
Document all instances of parental alienation, such as denied visitation or communication with the child.
This documentation can be used as evidence in court, and it can help you modify your child custody.
Mediation services can also help, depending on whether each parent is willing to participate. In mediation, a neutral third party helps you discuss your issues and come to new agreements together. Working collaboratively can help alleviate tensions and promote healthy communication between the alienated parent and child.
If you are experiencing parental alienation, get help from a good attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.
Ultimately, there isn’t much you can do to stop someone from lying to their kids. However, evidence of parental alienation could lead to a change in custody agreements. In extreme circumstances, you may be able to prove that the other parent is unfit, and they could lose their parental rights.
If your child’s other parent is turning the child against you, we may be able to help. To let us review your case, call us at (951) 779-1610 or contact us online. We can help you gather evidence and, if necessary, take the matter to court. If mediation is a better option, we can help with this process as well.